West Bengal governor RN Ravi on Thursday dissolved the state assembly after the term of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly ended on May 7, bringing an end to 15 years of Trinamool Congress rule in the state. With this move, TMC leader Mamata Banerjee is no longer the state's chief minister, despite her refusal to step down.&nbsp;"In exercise of the powers conferred upon the Governor under sub-clause (b) of Clause (2) of Article 174 of the Constitution of India, Hon'ble Governor of West Bengal, Shri R. N. Ravi, has issued an Order dissolving the West Bengal Legislative Assembly with effect from 07 May 2026. The Order has come into force in accordance with the constitutional provisions contained under Article 174(2)(b) of the Constitution of India," a press release from Lok Bhavan, West Bengal read.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Governor of West Bengal, RN Ravi, has issued an Order dissolving the West Bengal Legislative Assembly with effect from 07 May 2026. <a href="https://t.co/IuEAylWege">pic.twitter.com/IuEAylWege</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2052387822678741441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The move follows a decisive mandate in which the BJP won 207 seats with a 45.84% vote share, while the Trinamool Congress was reduced to 80 seats with 40.8%. TMC chief Mamata Banerjee refused to resign a day after results were declared, saying she would neither vacate the Chief Minister's post nor submit her resignation to the Governor.&nbsp;"I will not resign, I did not lose, I will not go to Raj Bhavan...The question doesn't arise. We didn't lose the election. It is their attempt to defeat us. Officially, through the Election Commission, they can defeat us, but morally, we won the election," the 71-year-old leader said.&nbsp;Banerjee directly targeted the Chief Election Commissioner, alleging bias. "The CEC became the villain of this election, to loot the democratic rights of the people and to loot the EVM," she said, also raising doubts over electronic voting machines. "Can you tell me that after voting, the EVM has an 80–90% charge? How is it possible?" she asked.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-elections-2026-polling-underway-across-england-scotland-and-wales-in-major-political-test-for-starmer-govt-1778156976318">UK elections 2026: Polling underway across England, Scotland and Wales in major political test for Starmer govt</a>&nbsp;She alleged a nexus between the BJP and the Election Commission, claiming direct interference from the central leadership. "It is a battle between the BJP and the Election Commission. PM and HM are also involved, with direct interference," she said.&nbsp;Banerjee further alleged that nearly 90 lakh voter names were deleted from the electoral rolls before polling, with judicial intervention later restoring 32 lakh names. She also claimed IPS and IAS officers were systematically transferred, and TMC workers were arrested ahead of voting. "They played dirty, nasty, and mischievous games. I have never seen this type of election in my life," she said.

Governor RN Ravi’s move follows Mamata Banerjee’s declaration that she would neither resign nor step down as Chief Minister, alleging fraud and poll rigging through alleged collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission.

West Bengal governor RN Ravi on Thursday dissolved the state assembly after the term of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly ended on May 7, bringing an end to 15 years of Trinamool Congress rule in the state. With this move, TMC leader Mamata Banerjee is no longer the state's chief minister, despite her refusal to step down. "In exercise of the powers conferred upon the Governor under sub-clause (b) of Clause (2) of Article 174 of the Constitution of India, Hon'ble Governor of West Bengal, Shri R. N. Ravi, has issued an Order dissolving the West Bengal Legislative Assembly with effect from 07 May 2026. The Order has come into force in accordance with the constitutional provisions contained under Article 174(2)(b) of the Constitution of India," a press release from Lok Bhavan, West Bengal read.

Governor RN Ravi’s move follows Mamata Banerjee’s declaration that she would neither resign nor step down as Chief Minister, alleging fraud and poll rigging through alleged collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission.

Mamata Banerjee ceases to be CM after Governor dissolves West Bengal Assembly

In a show of solidarity with a fellow INDIA bloc ally after the Trinamool Congress’ defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday backed Mamata Banerjee and alleged large-scale electoral manipulation by the BJP and the Election Commission of India (ECI).&nbsp;Speaking after meeting Banerjee and TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee at the Chief Minister’s residence in Kolkata, Yadav claimed the elections were influenced through what he described as “multi-layered mafiagiri”.&nbsp;“Today, all Opposition leaders must stand together against election fraud. When elections were held honestly, Didi won. This time, no one could have imagined such manipulation involving the BJP, the Election Commission and others working together,” Yadav said.&nbsp;“You have not lost, Didi. Aap haari nahi hain,” Yadav said, backing Banerjee’s stance that the election outcome did not reflect the true public mandate.&nbsp;The remarks came days after the BJP secured a historic victory in West Bengal, ending the TMC’s 15-year rule in the state. The BJP won 207 seats with a 45.84 per cent vote share, while the TMC was reduced to 80 seats with 40.8 per cent votes.&nbsp;A day after the results were declared, Banerjee said she would neither resign nor vacate the Chief Minister’s post. Addressing reporters in Kolkata on Tuesday, she alleged that the BJP used official machinery to influence the outcome.&nbsp;“We did not lose the election. They may have defeated us officially through the Election Commission, but morally we have won,” Banerjee had said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indus-waters-treaty-remains-suspended-over-pakistan-backed-terrorism-mea-on-op-sindoor-anniversary-1778159150642">Indus Waters Treaty remains suspended over Pakistan-backed terrorism: MEA on Op Sindoor anniversary</a>&nbsp;She also revealed that several INDIA bloc leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal, Uddhav Thackeray, Akhilesh Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav and Hemant Soren, contacted her after the results.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">West Bengal: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav met Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee and TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee in Kolkata. (Pic source: Samajwadi Party) <a href="https://t.co/qn70frrAyL">https://t.co/qn70frrAyL</a> <a href="https://t.co/dI1i79TeLF">pic.twitter.com/dI1i79TeLF</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2052337097869312318?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Akhilesh compares Bengal polls with UP elections</h2>Yadav alleged that the BJP had earlier experimented with similar tactics during the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.&nbsp;“What happened in Uttar Pradesh was a betrayal. They treated it as a trial and later expanded the same strategy elsewhere,” he said.&nbsp;The SP chief also alleged misuse of administrative machinery and irregular deployment of central forces during the Bengal polls. “We raised complaints against several officials during the Uttar Pradesh elections, but no action was taken. In Bengal, they completely took over the system. Even central forces were kept deployed for unusually long periods,” he claimed.&nbsp;Reacting to the killing of Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant Chandranath Rath, Yadav held Union Home Minister Amit Shah responsible and demanded accountability.“How did Suvendu Adhikari’s PA get murdered? The Home Minister must answer how this happened,” he said.

Alleging fraud and poll rigging through alleged collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission, Mamata Banerjee earlier said she would neither resign nor step down as Chief Minister by submitting her resignation to the Governor.

In a show of solidarity with a fellow INDIA bloc ally after the Trinamool Congress’ defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday backed Mamata Banerjee and alleged large-scale electoral manipulation by the BJP and the Election Commission of India (ECI). Speaking after meeting Banerjee and TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee at the Chief Minister’s residence in Kolkata, Yadav claimed the elections were influenced through what he described as “multi-layered mafiagiri”. “Today, all Opposition leaders must stand together against election fraud. When elections were held honestly, Didi won. This time, no one could have imagined such manipulation involving the BJP, the Election Commission and others working together,” Yadav said. “You have not lost, Didi. Aap haari nahi hain,” Yadav said, backing Banerjee’s stance that the election outcome did not reflect the true public mandate. The remarks came days after the BJP secured a historic victory in West Bengal, ending the TMC’s 15-year rule in the state. The BJP won 207 seats with a 45.84 per cent vote share, while the TMC was reduced to 80 seats with 40.8 per cent votes. A day after the results were declared, Banerjee said she would neither resign nor vacate the Chief Minister’s post. Addressing reporters in Kolkata on Tuesday, she alleged that the BJP used official machinery to influence the outcome. “We did not lose the election. They may have defeated us officially through the Election Commission, but morally we have won,” Banerjee had said. Also Read: Indus Waters Treaty remains suspended over Pakistan-backed terrorism: MEA on Op Sindoor anniversary She also revealed that several INDIA bloc leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal, Uddhav Thackeray, Akhilesh Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav and Hemant Soren, contacted her after the results.

Alleging fraud and poll rigging through alleged collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission, Mamata Banerjee earlier said she would neither resign nor step down as Chief Minister by submitting her resignation to the Governor.

‘You have not lost, Didi’: Akhilesh Yadav meets Mamata Banerjee, backs her poll rigging allegations after Bengal setback

BJP West Bengal leader of opposition Suvendu Adhikari's personal assistant was shot and killed in what an eyewitness described as a professional, pre-planned hit, as post-poll violence in the state claimed another life.&nbsp; The victim, identified as Chandra, was travelling by car near Madhyamgram when a bike-borne assailant pulled alongside the vehicle and opened fire at point-blank range, revealed an eyewitness. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The car's driver was also shot in the attack.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jalandhar-blast-khalistan-liberation-army-claims-responsibility-threatens-to-shed-so-much-blood-that-everything-will-look-red-1778040143835">Jalandhar blast: Khalistan Liberation Army claims responsibility; threatens to 'shed so much blood that everything will look red'</a><h2>A 'pre-planned' execution?</h2>An eyewitness to the killing described the sequence of events to ANI. "Just as Chandra's car crossed mine, it suddenly stopped midway, and a bike-borne person came and started shooting on the left side of the car. The person seemed to be an expert and fled immediately. It appeared to be pre-planned. The shots were fired at point-blank range. I heard the sound of two rounds." The incident occurred between 10:30 PM and 11 PM, approximately 200 to 300 metres from the hospital.Adhikari also called it "a cold-blooded and pre-planned murder" and urged party workers to maintain peace, assuring that those responsible would be brought to justice.<h2>Mamata Banerjee's TMC behind the killing, alleges BJP leader</h2>BJP leader Agnimitra Paul alleged a clear political motive behind the attack, linking it to Trinamool Congress's anger over electoral results, including Mamata Banerjee's reported defeat in Bhabanipur. "This is perhaps a consequence of Mamata Banerjee's defeat in Bhabanipur," she said, adding that CCTV footage from the area was being examined. She described Chandra as a trusted figure within the party structure. "He oversaw operations at the Leader of the Opposition's office, was like a brother to our MLAs, and handled several responsibilities."Paul also questioned why someone with no direct political role had been targeted. "Why was a man who had absolutely no connection with the BJP murdered? There is massive outrage among the public," she said, adding that a party booth worker had also been attacked with a knife and hospitalised around the same time.Trinamool Congress condemned the killing and called for a CBI investigation into the incident. The party has not commented on the allegations of political motivation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/post-poll-violence-grips-west-bengal-miscreants-open-fire-on-police-as-tmc-bjp-clashes-claim-four-lives-1778046815339">Post-poll violence grips West Bengal: Miscreants open fire on police as TMC-BJP clashes claim four lives</a><h2>Post-poll violence grips West Bengal</h2>The murder adds to a mounting toll of post-poll violence that has already claimed at least four lives across West Bengal since election results were declared, with clashes reported from Kolkata, Udaynarayanpur, Nanoor and Jalpaiguri.

West Bengal’s post-poll violence has taken another deadly turn after Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant was shot dead in what eyewitnesses describe as a professional, point-blank assassination. Scroll down to read the eyewitness account.

BJP West Bengal leader of opposition Suvendu Adhikari's personal assistant was shot and killed in what an eyewitness described as a professional, pre-planned hit, as post-poll violence in the state claimed another life. The victim, identified as Chandra, was travelling by car near Madhyamgram when a bike-borne assailant pulled alongside the vehicle and opened fire at point-blank range, revealed an eyewitness. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The car's driver was also shot in the attack. Also read | Jalandhar blast: Khalistan Liberation Army claims responsibility; threatens to 'shed so much blood that everything will look red' A 'pre-planned' execution? An eyewitness to the killing described the sequence of events to ANI. "Just as Chandra's car crossed mine, it suddenly stopped midway, and a bike-borne person came and started shooting on the left side of the car. The person seemed to be an expert and fled immediately. It appeared to be pre-planned. The shots were fired at point-blank range. I heard the sound of two rounds." The incident occurred between 10:30 PM and 11 PM, approximately 200 to 300 metres from the hospital. Adhikari also called it "a cold-blooded and pre-planned murder" and urged party workers to maintain peace, assuring that those responsible would be brought to justice. Mamata Banerjee's TMC behind the killing, alleges BJP leader BJP leader Agnimitra Paul alleged a clear political motive behind the attack, linking it to Trinamool Congress's anger over electoral results, including Mamata Banerjee's reported defeat in Bhabanipur. "This is perhaps a consequence of Mamata Banerjee's defeat in Bhabanipur," she said, adding that CCTV footage from the area was being examined. She described Chandra as a trusted figure within the party structure. "He oversaw operations at the Leader of the Opposition's office, was like a brother to our MLAs, and handled several responsibilities." Paul also questioned why someone with no direct political role had been targeted. "Why was a man who had absolutely no connection with the BJP murdered? There is massive outrage among the public," she said, adding that a party booth worker had also been attacked with a knife and hospitalised around the same time. Trinamool Congress condemned the killing and called for a CBI investigation into the incident. The party has not commented on the allegations of political motivation. Also read | Post-poll violence grips West Bengal: Miscreants open fire on police as TMC-BJP clashes claim four lives Post-poll violence grips West Bengal The murder adds to a mounting toll of post-poll violence that has already claimed at least four lives across West Bengal since election results were declared, with clashes reported from Kolkata, Udaynarayanpur, Nanoor and Jalpaiguri.

West Bengal’s post-poll violence has taken another deadly turn after Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant was shot dead in what eyewitnesses describe as a professional, point-blank assassination. Scroll down to read the eyewitness account.

Suvendu Adhikari PA's killing 'pre-planned'? Eyewitness reveals shocking details of shooting in West Bengal's Madhyamgram

West Bengal descended into widespread post-election violence on Wednesday (May 6), with at least five personnel injured as miscreants fired gunshots at police and central forces during patrols in Bamangheri. This comes as at least four people were killed, &nbsp;and dozens were injured, with party offices ransacked across multiple districts as rival Trinamool Congress and BJP cadres clashed in the aftermath of the assembly poll results.<h2>Five police personnel injured</h2>In one of the most alarming incidents, miscreants opened fire on a police team accompanied by central forces during a patrol in the Bamangheri area of the Sarberia-Agarhati Gram Panchayat, under the jurisdiction of Nazat Police Station. The Officer-in-Charge of the station, a police constable from Rajbari Outpost and a female officer all sustained gunshot wounds. Two Central Armed Police Forces jawans were also shot.All five were taken to Minakha Rural Hospital before being transferred to hospitals in Kolkata. A bag filled with bombs was recovered from the scene.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jalandhar-blast-khalistan-liberation-army-claims-responsibility-threatens-to-shed-so-much-blood-that-everything-will-look-red-1778040143835">Jalandhar blast: Khalistan Liberation Army claims responsibility; threatens to 'shed so much blood that everything will look red'</a>A resident described hiding under her bed with her family as a group of boys ran through her yard. She said police broke down the door of her house and detained her family overnight. "They arrested five members of our tribal community and four Muslims," she said, adding that she initially mistook the gunshots for a slamming door.The shooting incident comes as the Election Commission of India issued directives to the West Bengal Chief Secretary, DGP and CAPFs demanding "zero tolerance" toward post-poll violence.<h2>Four killed in post-poll violence</h2>In Kolkata, two deaths were reported within 24 hours. In Beleghata, Trinamool poll agent Biswajit Pattanaik, 45, was found bleeding at his doorstep after stepping out following a phone call. His family alleges he was dragged out and beaten.Hours later in New Town, BJP worker Madhu Mondal, 46, died after a clash with Trinamool Congress supporters over control of a party office. Police said he was pushed and kicked, following which he collapsed and was declared dead at the hospital. His home was subsequently vandalised.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-who-is-trying-to-destabilise-punjab-twin-blasts-rock-indian-state-explosions-near-jalandhar-bsf-hq-and-amritsar-army-camp-1778032846976">'Who is trying to destabilise Punjab?': Twin blasts rock Indian state; explosions near Jalandhar BSF HQ and Amritsar army camp</a>Violence spread rapidly across the city. Party offices were attacked from Behala to Kalighat and Shyampukur. In Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's own Bhowanipur constituency, a councillor's office was broken into and set ablaze. TMC offices across several wards were seized or defaced, with BJP flags hoisted in their place. Clashes also erupted at the University of Calcutta in College Street, where posters were torn, and student activists were assaulted.Beyond Kolkata, the violence extended across the state. In Udaynarayanpur, BJP activist Jadav Bar, 45, was allegedly lynched. Police arrested four suspects and are investigating both personal and political motives. In Nanoor, TMC worker Abir Sheikh, 45, was hacked to death, with his family blaming BJP cadres, a charge the party denied. Fresh clashes were also reported in Jalpaiguri.Central forces have been deployed across affected areas, with Police saying that the situation was "under control."

West Bengal is spiralling into deadly post-poll violence, with miscreants firing shots at police patrols in the Bamangheri area. This comes as at least four people were killed in fierce TMC-BJP clashes that have erupted across districts. Scroll down to read more.

West Bengal descended into widespread post-election violence on Wednesday (May 6), with at least five personnel injured as miscreants fired gunshots at police and central forces during patrols in Bamangheri. This comes as at least four people were killed, and dozens were injured, with party offices ransacked across multiple districts as rival Trinamool Congress and BJP cadres clashed in the aftermath of the assembly poll results. Five police personnel injured In one of the most alarming incidents, miscreants opened fire on a police team accompanied by central forces during a patrol in the Bamangheri area of the Sarberia-Agarhati Gram Panchayat, under the jurisdiction of Nazat Police Station. The Officer-in-Charge of the station, a police constable from Rajbari Outpost and a female officer all sustained gunshot wounds. Two Central Armed Police Forces jawans were also shot. All five were taken to Minakha Rural Hospital before being transferred to hospitals in Kolkata. A bag filled with bombs was recovered from the scene. Also read | Jalandhar blast: Khalistan Liberation Army claims responsibility; threatens to 'shed so much blood that everything will look red' A resident described hiding under her bed with her family as a group of boys ran through her yard. She said police broke down the door of her house and detained her family overnight. "They arrested five members of our tribal community and four Muslims," she said, adding that she initially mistook the gunshots for a slamming door. The shooting incident comes as the Election Commission of India issued directives to the West Bengal Chief Secretary, DGP and CAPFs demanding "zero tolerance" toward post-poll violence. Four killed in post-poll violence In Kolkata, two deaths were reported within 24 hours. In Beleghata, Trinamool poll agent Biswajit Pattanaik, 45, was found bleeding at his doorstep after stepping out following a phone call. His family alleges he was dragged out and beaten. Hours later in New Town, BJP worker Madhu Mondal, 46, died after a clash with Trinamool Congress supporters over control of a party office. Police said he was pushed and kicked, following which he collapsed and was declared dead at the hospital. His home was subsequently vandalised. Also read | 'Who is trying to destabilise Punjab?': Twin blasts rock Indian state; explosions near Jalandhar BSF HQ and Amritsar army camp Violence spread rapidly across the city. Party offices were attacked from Behala to Kalighat and Shyampukur. In Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's own Bhowanipur constituency, a councillor's office was broken into and set ablaze. TMC offices across several wards were seized or defaced, with BJP flags hoisted in their place. Clashes also erupted at the University of Calcutta in College Street, where posters were torn, and student activists were assaulted. Beyond Kolkata, the violence extended across the state. In Udaynarayanpur, BJP activist Jadav Bar, 45, was allegedly lynched. Police arrested four suspects and are investigating both personal and political motives. In Nanoor, TMC worker Abir Sheikh, 45, was hacked to death, with his family blaming BJP cadres, a charge the party denied. Fresh clashes were also reported in Jalpaiguri. Central forces have been deployed across affected areas, with Police saying that the situation was "under control."

West Bengal is spiralling into deadly post-poll violence, with miscreants firing shots at police patrols in the Bamangheri area. This comes as at least four people were killed in fierce TMC-BJP clashes that have erupted across districts. Scroll down to read more.

Post-poll violence grips West Bengal: Miscreants open fire on police as TMC-BJP clashes claim four lives

As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) edges closer to the possibility of forming its first government in West Bengal since Independence, Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the party’s strongest contender for the chief minister’s post. His political trajectory mirrors the broader shift underway in the state, combining grassroots mobilisation, insider knowledge of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and strong backing from the BJP’s central leadership.&nbsp;Adhikari’s journey began early. Once a trusted aide of Mamata Banerjee, he entered politics as a teenager and steadily rose through the ranks. His decision to join the BJP in December 2020, after resigning from Banerjee’s cabinet, marked a turning point in Bengal politics. According to political observers, his defection was not merely symbolic but strategic, as he leveraged his understanding of Trinamool’s organisational structure to mount a direct challenge against his former mentor.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-unacceptable-pm-modi-issues-statement-after-injuries-to-3-indian-nationals-in-drone-attack-on-uae-s-fujairah-1777968581573">PM Modi condemns drone attack in UAE, after injuries to 3 Indian nationals</a>&nbsp;His rise is deeply tied to Nandigram, where he first gained prominence during the anti-land acquisition movement. That same constituency later became the epicentre of a high-stakes political battle. Adhikari’s victories over Banerjee in Nandigram in both the 2021 and 2026 elections are widely seen as defining moments. Analysts note that these wins not only delivered electoral gains but also dented the perception of invincibility surrounding the TMC leadership.<h2>Earlier life</h2>Born into a politically influential family in East Midnapore, Adhikari began his formal political career in 1995 as a councillor in Kanthi Municipality under the Congress banner. He later joined the Trinamool Congress alongside his father, Sisir Adhikari, and rose to prominence during the 2007 Nandigram movement. His switch to the BJP took place on December 19, 2020, at a rally attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.&nbsp;Several TMC insiders described his exit as one of the most significant political developments in the state at the time, with some attributing it to internal party dynamics involving Abhishek Banerjee. Over the years, Adhikari has been credited in political circles with playing a key role in expanding Trinamool’s footprint in regions such as Malda and Murshidabad, and in countering Left influence in areas like Nandigram.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/end-of-dynastic-politics-sons-of-three-former-cms-lose-assam-assembly-polls-what-next-1777962166014">End of dynastic politics? Sons of three former-CMs lose Assam Assembly polls</a>&nbsp;His reputation as a “street-fighter” politician has further strengthened his appeal within the BJP. Unlike many leaders who transitioned from other parties, Adhikari has remained visibly active on the ground, leading protests and mobilising cadres in what party leaders describe as a politically challenging environment. He has also faced multiple cases, which he has consistently maintained are politically motivated.<h2>Why is he the best bet?</h2>For the BJP leadership, Adhikari represents a crucial link between the party’s national ambitions and Bengal’s regional complexities. Amit Shah was among the first to project him as the party’s face in the state, a move seen by analysts as part of a calculated strategy to counter Banerjee’s dominance with a credible local challenger.&nbsp;His administrative experience from his time in the TMC namool government, combined with his grassroots connections and central backing, has positioned him as a leading figure in the BJP’s Bengal campaign. Political analysts say that if the BJP succeeds in forming a government, elevating Adhikari to the chief minister’s post would signal a decisive shift in the state’s political landscape.

Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the BJP’s primary Chief Ministerial candidate in West Bengal, leveraging his grassroots influence and strategic victories over Mamata Banerjee to challenge TMC’s long-standing dominance.

As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) edges closer to the possibility of forming its first government in West Bengal since Independence, Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the party’s strongest contender for the chief minister’s post. His political trajectory mirrors the broader shift underway in the state, combining grassroots mobilisation, insider knowledge of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and strong backing from the BJP’s central leadership. Adhikari’s journey began early. Once a trusted aide of Mamata Banerjee, he entered politics as a teenager and steadily rose through the ranks. His decision to join the BJP in December 2020, after resigning from Banerjee’s cabinet, marked a turning point in Bengal politics. According to political observers, his defection was not merely symbolic but strategic, as he leveraged his understanding of Trinamool’s organisational structure to mount a direct challenge against his former mentor. Also read: PM Modi condemns drone attack in UAE, after injuries to 3 Indian nationals His rise is deeply tied to Nandigram, where he first gained prominence during the anti-land acquisition movement. That same constituency later became the epicentre of a high-stakes political battle. Adhikari’s victories over Banerjee in Nandigram in both the 2021 and 2026 elections are widely seen as defining moments. Analysts note that these wins not only delivered electoral gains but also dented the perception of invincibility surrounding the TMC leadership. Earlier life Born into a politically influential family in East Midnapore, Adhikari began his formal political career in 1995 as a councillor in Kanthi Municipality under the Congress banner. He later joined the Trinamool Congress alongside his father, Sisir Adhikari, and rose to prominence during the 2007 Nandigram movement. His switch to the BJP took place on December 19, 2020, at a rally attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Several TMC insiders described his exit as one of the most significant political developments in the state at the time, with some attributing it to internal party dynamics involving Abhishek Banerjee. Over the years, Adhikari has been credited in political circles with playing a key role in expanding Trinamool’s footprint in regions such as Malda and Murshidabad, and in countering Left influence in areas like Nandigram. Also read: End of dynastic politics? Sons of three former-CMs lose Assam Assembly polls His reputation as a “street-fighter” politician has further strengthened his appeal within the BJP. Unlike many leaders who transitioned from other parties, Adhikari has remained visibly active on the ground, leading protests and mobilising cadres in what party leaders describe as a politically challenging environment. He has also faced multiple cases, which he has consistently maintained are politically motivated. Why is he the best bet? For the BJP leadership, Adhikari represents a crucial link between the party’s national ambitions and Bengal’s regional complexities. Amit Shah was among the first to project him as the party’s face in the state, a move seen by analysts as part of a calculated strategy to counter Banerjee’s dominance with a credible local challenger. His administrative experience from his time in the TMC namool government, combined with his grassroots connections and central backing, has positioned him as a leading figure in the BJP’s Bengal campaign. Political analysts say that if the BJP succeeds in forming a government, elevating Adhikari to the chief minister’s post would signal a decisive shift in the state’s political landscape.

Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the BJP’s primary Chief Ministerial candidate in West Bengal, leveraging his grassroots influence and strategic victories over Mamata Banerjee to challenge TMC’s long-standing dominance.

Who will be new CM of West Bengal? Suvendu Adhikari could be the best bet for BJP - Here’s why

BJP's thundering victory against the Trinamool Congress, ending a 15-year regime helmed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has marked one of the major aspects of assembly elections in West Bengal. In a significant blow before the assembly polls, more than 90 lakh electors in the state discovered that their names had been deleted from the voters' lists. The development unfolded months after the Election Commission undertook a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter rolls, intending to clean up the records of dead and duplicate voters. In response, TMC alleged to ECI that the SIR process was targeted, fearing that the party could lose its voter base in the state. Meanwhile, after the party went out of power, attention has turned to how voter list deletions aligned with the final vote share of TMC and BJP. More than 25,000 names were removed across 147 constituencies in West Bengal. An analysis by NDTV found that a significant share of these seats went to the BJP, which secured 95 out of 147. The Trinamool won 51, while the Indian National Congress managed just one. In 67 constituencies with deletions ranging from 15,000 to 25,000, the BJP again led with 47 wins, compared to 19 for the Trinamool and 1 for the Congress. Among 62 seats with deletions between 5,000 and 15,000, the BJP won 50, with the rest going to the Trinamool. Notably, all 13 constituencies with fewer than 5,000 deletions were won by the BJP.<h3>Most exclusions from Murshidabad</h3>During the SIR process, the maximum number of cases deemed "excludable" were from the Murshidabad district, where more than 4.55 lakh cases were deleted, whereas from North 24 Parganas were 3,25,666 cases, and from Malda, 2,39,375 cases were deleted. In Murshidabad, Trinamool secured 20 seats out of 22 in 2021, dropping to nine this time. The result shows a split in the minority votes and a consolidation of Hindu votes in favour of the BJP. A similar pattern was seen in North 24 Paraganas, where TMC saw a sharp dip, from 28 seats out of 33 seats in 2021, dropping to just eight this time. In Malda, its tally dropped from eight of 12 seats to six, with the remaining seats won by the BJP. The SIR conducted by the ECI became a contentious issue in West Bengal, which shares a 2,200-km border with Bangladesh. The exercise identified a record 91 lakh ineligible voters. Before the SIR notification in November, the electorate stood at over 7.66 crore. A draft roll released in December removed more than 58.20 lakh names, which rose to 63.66 lakh in the final list published on February 28. According to the Chief Electoral Officer’s office, over 60.06 lakh cases were sent for judicial review in February. Of these, 27,16,393 were deemed ineligible, taking the total number of deletions to 90,83,345.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bengal-election-results-jhalmuri-to-juggernaut-bjp-spices-up-tmc-s-rout-voters-show-no-mamata-for-didi-s-15-year-rule-1777962852209">Bengal Election Results: Jhalmuri to juggernaut, BJP spices up TMC’s rout; voters show no ‘mamata’ for Didi’s 15-year rule</a>

In 67 constituencies with deletions ranging from 15,000 to 25,000, the BJP again led with 47 wins, compared to 19 for the Trinamool and one for Congress. Among 62 seats with deletions between 5,000 and 15,000, the BJP won 50, with the rest going to the Trinamool.

BJP's thundering victory against the Trinamool Congress, ending a 15-year regime helmed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has marked one of the major aspects of assembly elections in West Bengal. In a significant blow before the assembly polls, more than 90 lakh electors in the state discovered that their names had been deleted from the voters' lists. The development unfolded months after the Election Commission undertook a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter rolls, intending to clean up the records of dead and duplicate voters. In response, TMC alleged to ECI that the SIR process was targeted, fearing that the party could lose its voter base in the state. Meanwhile, after the party went out of power, attention has turned to how voter list deletions aligned with the final vote share of TMC and BJP. More than 25,000 names were removed across 147 constituencies in West Bengal. An analysis by NDTV found that a significant share of these seats went to the BJP, which secured 95 out of 147. The Trinamool won 51, while the Indian National Congress managed just one. In 67 constituencies with deletions ranging from 15,000 to 25,000, the BJP again led with 47 wins, compared to 19 for the Trinamool and 1 for the Congress. Among 62 seats with deletions between 5,000 and 15,000, the BJP won 50, with the rest going to the Trinamool. Notably, all 13 constituencies with fewer than 5,000 deletions were won by the BJP. Most exclusions from Murshidabad During the SIR process, the maximum number of cases deemed "excludable" were from the Murshidabad district, where more than 4.55 lakh cases were deleted, whereas from North 24 Parganas were 3,25,666 cases, and from Malda, 2,39,375 cases were deleted. In Murshidabad, Trinamool secured 20 seats out of 22 in 2021, dropping to nine this time. The result shows a split in the minority votes and a consolidation of Hindu votes in favour of the BJP. A similar pattern was seen in North 24 Paraganas, where TMC saw a sharp dip, from 28 seats out of 33 seats in 2021, dropping to just eight this time. In Malda, its tally dropped from eight of 12 seats to six, with the remaining seats won by the BJP. The SIR conducted by the ECI became a contentious issue in West Bengal, which shares a 2,200-km border with Bangladesh. The exercise identified a record 91 lakh ineligible voters. Before the SIR notification in November, the electorate stood at over 7.66 crore. A draft roll released in December removed more than 58.20 lakh names, which rose to 63.66 lakh in the final list published on February 28. According to the Chief Electoral Officer’s office, over 60.06 lakh cases were sent for judicial review in February. Of these, 27,16,393 were deemed ineligible, taking the total number of deletions to 90,83,345. Also read: Bengal Election Results: Jhalmuri to juggernaut, BJP spices up TMC’s rout; voters show no ‘mamata’ for Didi’s 15-year rule

In 67 constituencies with deletions ranging from 15,000 to 25,000, the BJP again led with 47 wins, compared to 19 for the Trinamool and one for Congress. Among 62 seats with deletions between 5,000 and 15,000, the BJP won 50, with the rest going to the Trinamool.

SIR effect in West Bengal: How Trinamool Congress performed where voter deletions were highest

Ratna Debnath, the mother of the doctor raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and BJP candidate for West Bengal's Panihari, is leading in her race by over 8,000 votes after three rounds of counting on Monday (May 4). Panihari has become one of the most closely watched contests of the West Bengal assembly election, with significance that goes well beyond the seat itself. Debnath entered the election as a grieving mother who lost her daughter on August 9, 2024, when a postgraduate trainee doctor was found raped and murdered in a seminar room at the Kolkata hospital. The case ignited mass protests across India and became a defining issue for critics of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's government, which holds the health portfolio and faced sustained accusations over its initial handling of the investigation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-why-didn-t-she-save-my-daughter-mother-of-rg-kar-rape-murder-victim-enters-west-bengal-election-fray-vows-to-defeat-mamata-banerjee-1775707531406">'Why didn't she save my daughter?': Mother of RG Kar rape-murder victim enters West Bengal election fray, vows to defeat Mamata Banerjee</a><h2>Who's winning in West Bengal's Panihari?</h2>Debnath is running against Trinamool Congress candidate Tirthankar Ghosh, who trailed her by over 8,000 votes after three counting rounds. The CPI(M) candidate Kalatan Dasgupta was in a distant third position.West Bengal's 294-seat assembly went to the polls in two phases, April 23 and April 29, with counting underway on May 4.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260504/image-1777881553546.png"></figure><h2>Ratna Debnath's 'main enemy'</h2>Earlier, as she entered the election fray, Debnath had announced, "My main enemy is Mamata Banerjee because she's the Health Minister, and my daughter worked for the Health Department". She questioned, "Why didn't Mamata Banerjee save my daughter?".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/big-winners-kerala-assam-west-bengal-tamil-nadu-puducherry-assembly-elections-2026-congress-udf-bjp-nda-cpi-m-cpi-ind-inc-admk-tvk-dmk-aitc-1777867484994">BIG WINNERS Assembly Elections 2026: Who won, who lost in Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry</a>Recently, on April 29, Debnath reiterated her earlier statement, once again naming Banerjee as her primary target throughout the campaign. Voicing appreciation for the high voter turnout in the state, she"Our only regret is that when such an incident happens, our female Chief Minister herself insults women," she said before polling concluded. "Those who say that girls should not go out after 8 PM, when my daughter was murdered, they said girls should not do night duty. This time Bengal will fight against this."Her husband Shankaran Debnath pointed to the broader pattern of the election, describing record voter turnout as evidence that the public had made up its mind. West Bengal saw a staggering 91.62 per cent turnout across the second phase of polling. &nbsp;

In one of West Bengal’s most emotionally charged contests in Panihari, RG Kar victim’s mother Ratna Debnath is leading by over 8,000 votes as she turns personal tragedy into a powerful political challenge against Mamata Banerjee’s government. Scroll down.

Ratna Debnath, the mother of the doctor raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and BJP candidate for West Bengal's Panihari, is leading in her race by over 8,000 votes after three rounds of counting on Monday (May 4). Panihari has become one of the most closely watched contests of the West Bengal assembly election, with significance that goes well beyond the seat itself. Debnath entered the election as a grieving mother who lost her daughter on August 9, 2024, when a postgraduate trainee doctor was found raped and murdered in a seminar room at the Kolkata hospital. The case ignited mass protests across India and became a defining issue for critics of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's government, which holds the health portfolio and faced sustained accusations over its initial handling of the investigation. Also read | 'Why didn't she save my daughter?': Mother of RG Kar rape-murder victim enters West Bengal election fray, vows to defeat Mamata Banerjee Who's winning in West Bengal's Panihari? Debnath is running against Trinamool Congress candidate Tirthankar Ghosh, who trailed her by over 8,000 votes after three counting rounds. The CPI(M) candidate Kalatan Dasgupta was in a distant third position. West Bengal's 294-seat assembly went to the polls in two phases, April 23 and April 29, with counting underway on May 4. Ratna Debnath's 'main enemy' Earlier, as she entered the election fray, Debnath had announced, "My main enemy is Mamata Banerjee because she's the Health Minister, and my daughter worked for the Health Department". She questioned, "Why didn't Mamata Banerjee save my daughter?". Also read | BIG WINNERS Assembly Elections 2026: Who won, who lost in Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Recently, on April 29, Debnath reiterated her earlier statement, once again naming Banerjee as her primary target throughout the campaign. Voicing appreciation for the high voter turnout in the state, she "Our only regret is that when such an incident happens, our female Chief Minister herself insults women," she said before polling concluded. "Those who say that girls should not go out after 8 PM, when my daughter was murdered, they said girls should not do night duty. This time Bengal will fight against this." Her husband Shankaran Debnath pointed to the broader pattern of the election, describing record voter turnout as evidence that the public had made up its mind. West Bengal saw a staggering 91.62 per cent turnout across the second phase of polling.

In one of West Bengal’s most emotionally charged contests in Panihati, RG Kar victim’s mother Ratna Debnath is leading by over 8,000 votes as she turns personal tragedy into a powerful political challenge against Mamata Banerjee’s government. Scroll down.

Ratna Debnath, mother of RG Kar rape-murder victim, dominates early rounds in West Bengal's Panihati

Counting is still in its early stages, but the first big picture is beginning to take shape across five major battlegrounds of the Assembly Elections 2026. For now, Kerala and Assam are producing the clearest leads. Who are the big winners in Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry?&nbsp;<h2>Kerala early trends: Congress-UDF leading</h2>In Kerala, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has opened with a noticeable edge, with the early trends looking increasingly favourable for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).As of 9:45 am, the Indian National Congress is leading in 52 seats. Its key ally, the Indian Union Muslim League, is ahead in 16 seats.The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), is currently leading in 28 seats, while the Communist Party of India holds 9.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/midnight-terror-in-bhagalpur-33-metre-slab-of-bihar-s-vikramshila-setu-plunges-into-ganges-river-authorities-seal-vital-bridge-1777862848600">Midnight terror in Bhagalpur: 33-metre slab of Bihar's Vikramshila Setu plunges into Ganges river; authorities seal vital bridge | Watch</a><h2>Assam Early Trends: BJP races ahead as NDA opens commanding lead</h2>Assam’s early counting trends are pointing in one clear direction so far, the BJP-led alliance has come out of the gate strong and is significantly ahead of the opposition in the opening rounds.According to the latest figures from 53 of 126 seats where trends are currently available, the Bharatiya Janata Party alone is leading in 32 constituencies, giving it a dominant position in the early contest.And it is not just the BJP. Its allies are adding to that momentum. The Bodoland People’s Front is ahead in 5 seats, while the Asom Gana Parishad has leads in 3. Assam Jatiya Parishad is also showing presence with 3 leads.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bargi-dam-cruise-boat-tragedy-heartbreaking-photo-of-mother-and-son-clinging-to-each-other-fake-jabalpur-collector-says-ai-generated-1777701429547">Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy: Heartbreaking photo of mother and son clinging to each other fake? Jabalpur collector says...</a><h2>West Bengal Early Trends: BJP storms ahead in opening rounds, TMC off to sluggish start</h2>West Bengal’s first clear counting picture is in, and the early numbers are striking. In the initial 24 constituencies where trends are currently available, the Bharatiya Janata Party has surged ahead with leads in 18 seats. The ruling All India Trinamool Congress, whose Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is fighting for a fourth straight term, is ahead in 14 (as of 9:45 am).The Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM) is also showing presence with 2 leads.<h2>Tamil Nadu Early Trends: AIADMK leads, but Vijay’s TVK turns election into three-way shocker</h2>Tamil Nadu’s early counting rounds are throwing up one of the day’s biggest surprises.The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam has taken the initial lead with 32 seats, putting it ahead in the opening phase. But the real headline is not just AIADMK’s performance, it is actor-turned-politician Vijay’s TVK.Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam is currently leading in 28 constituencies, placing it just behind AIADMK and dramatically reshaping what many expected to be a more conventional DMK vs AIADMK battle.<h2>Puducherry: AINRC opens with a clear lead</h2>In Puducherry, the early battle is tilting decisively toward the All India N.R. Congress. AINRC is currently leading in 7 seats out of 14 trends available, giving it a noticeable early advantage in the Union Territory.The Congress is trailing with 2 leads, while AIADMK and DMK have opened with 1 each. Independents and smaller players are also showing relevance, with 3 seats in the “Others” column.For now, these are opening rounds, not final verdicts. &nbsp;

Who are the big winners and losers so far in Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry? Early Assembly Elections 2026 trends are beginning to reveal the biggest leads, surprise performers, and major setbacks across India’s top political battlegrounds. Scroll down.

Counting is still in its early stages, but the first big picture is beginning to take shape across five major battlegrounds of the Assembly Elections 2026. For now, Kerala and Assam are producing the clearest leads. Who are the big winners in Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry? Kerala early trends: Congress-UDF leading In Kerala, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has opened with a noticeable edge, with the early trends looking increasingly favourable for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF). As of 9:45 am, the Indian National Congress is leading in 52 seats. Its key ally, the Indian Union Muslim League, is ahead in 16 seats. The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), is currently leading in 28 seats, while the Communist Party of India holds 9. Also read | Midnight terror in Bhagalpur: 33-metre slab of Bihar's Vikramshila Setu plunges into Ganges river; authorities seal vital bridge | Watch Assam Early Trends: BJP races ahead as NDA opens commanding lead Assam’s early counting trends are pointing in one clear direction so far, the BJP-led alliance has come out of the gate strong and is significantly ahead of the opposition in the opening rounds. According to the latest figures from 53 of 126 seats where trends are currently available, the Bharatiya Janata Party alone is leading in 32 constituencies, giving it a dominant position in the early contest. And it is not just the BJP. Its allies are adding to that momentum. The Bodoland People’s Front is ahead in 5 seats, while the Asom Gana Parishad has leads in 3. Assam Jatiya Parishad is also showing presence with 3 leads. Also read | Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy: Heartbreaking photo of mother and son clinging to each other fake? Jabalpur collector says... West Bengal Early Trends: BJP storms ahead in opening rounds, TMC off to sluggish start West Bengal’s first clear counting picture is in, and the early numbers are striking. In the initial 24 constituencies where trends are currently available, the Bharatiya Janata Party has surged ahead with leads in 18 seats. The ruling All India Trinamool Congress, whose Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is fighting for a fourth straight term, is ahead in 14 (as of 9:45 am). The Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM) is also showing presence with 2 leads. Tamil Nadu Early Trends: AIADMK leads, but Vijay’s TVK turns election into three-way shocker Tamil Nadu’s early counting rounds are throwing up one of the day’s biggest surprises. The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam has taken the initial lead with 32 seats, putting it ahead in the opening phase. But the real headline is not just AIADMK’s performance, it is actor-turned-politician Vijay’s TVK. Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam is currently leading in 28 constituencies, placing it just behind AIADMK and dramatically reshaping what many expected to be a more conventional DMK vs AIADMK battle. Puducherry: AINRC opens with a clear lead In Puducherry, the early battle is tilting decisively toward the All India N.R. Congress. AINRC is currently leading in 7 seats out of 14 trends available, giving it a noticeable early advantage in the Union Territory. The Congress is trailing with 2 leads, while AIADMK and DMK have opened with 1 each. Independents and smaller players are also showing relevance, with 3 seats in the “Others” column. For now, these are opening rounds, not final verdicts.

Who are the big winners and losers so far in Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry? Early Assembly Elections 2026 trends are beginning to reveal the biggest leads, surprise performers, and major setbacks across India’s top political battlegrounds. Scroll down.

BIG WINNERS Assembly Elections 2026: Who won, who lost in Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

Two men allegedly attacked the residence of a BJP functionary in West Bengal’s Noapara on Saturday night, triggering fresh tensions ahead of vote counting. The incident, captured on CCTV, has raised concerns over security in the area.&nbsp;Kundan Singh, BJP’s organisational district secretary, claimed that two individuals opened fire outside his house, creating panic in the locality. He alleged that the attack was aimed at intimidating party workers in the run-up to counting day. “At night, two men, Akash Choudhary and Aman, arrived outside my house, took out their arms, and started firing. They had been spreading terror in the area for many days. The intent was to scare the BJP since Trinamool has been defeated at the polls, but nobody will be scared. We will win the elections,” Singh said.&nbsp;Former Barrackpore MP and Noapara MLA candidate Arjun Singh also accused the police of failing to provide adequate protection to BJP members. He claimed that the accused had a criminal background and was earlier detained during the elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The culprits, Aman and Akash Choudhary, were detained by the police during the elections as they used to sell drugs in the area. The entire system is intended to scare BJP members so that they do not go for the counting. The police have video footage, yet there are still no arrests; this means the police administration is a failure. They should be arrested,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-iranian-tanker-carrying-oil-worth-220-million-evade-us-blockade-what-we-know-1777810639033">Did Iranian tanker carrying oil worth $220 million evade US blockade? What we know</a>&nbsp;However, the Barrackpore Police Commissionerate said action had been taken in the case. Deputy Commissioner (North) Washim Khan said two individuals have been arrested and will be produced before the Barrackpore Sub-divisional Court, with police seeking 10-day custody for further questioning.&nbsp;The incident comes amid rising political tension in the state ahead of the counting on Monday. A day earlier, protests broke out in Falta in the South 24 Parganas district, where residents alleged intimidation by Trinamool Congress workers. Protesters demanded a repoll and called for the deployment of central forces to ensure security.&nbsp;Security has since been tightened in the area, with personnel from the CRPF and RAF deployed at key locations. An armoured vehicle has also been stationed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

Ahead of the results, West Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya expressed confidence in the party’s victory, saying Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will be “gone” on May 4.

Two men allegedly attacked the residence of a BJP functionary in West Bengal’s Noapara on Saturday night, triggering fresh tensions ahead of vote counting. The incident, captured on CCTV, has raised concerns over security in the area. Kundan Singh, BJP’s organisational district secretary, claimed that two individuals opened fire outside his house, creating panic in the locality. He alleged that the attack was aimed at intimidating party workers in the run-up to counting day. “At night, two men, Akash Choudhary and Aman, arrived outside my house, took out their arms, and started firing. They had been spreading terror in the area for many days. The intent was to scare the BJP since Trinamool has been defeated at the polls, but nobody will be scared. We will win the elections,” Singh said. Former Barrackpore MP and Noapara MLA candidate Arjun Singh also accused the police of failing to provide adequate protection to BJP members. He claimed that the accused had a criminal background and was earlier detained during the elections. “The culprits, Aman and Akash Choudhary, were detained by the police during the elections as they used to sell drugs in the area. The entire system is intended to scare BJP members so that they do not go for the counting. The police have video footage, yet there are still no arrests; this means the police administration is a failure. They should be arrested,” he said. Also Read: Did Iranian tanker carrying oil worth $220 million evade US blockade? What we know However, the Barrackpore Police Commissionerate said action had been taken in the case. Deputy Commissioner (North) Washim Khan said two individuals have been arrested and will be produced before the Barrackpore Sub-divisional Court, with police seeking 10-day custody for further questioning. The incident comes amid rising political tension in the state ahead of the counting on Monday. A day earlier, protests broke out in Falta in the South 24 Parganas district, where residents alleged intimidation by Trinamool Congress workers. Protesters demanded a repoll and called for the deployment of central forces to ensure security. Security has since been tightened in the area, with personnel from the CRPF and RAF deployed at key locations. An armoured vehicle has also been stationed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

Ahead of the results, West Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya expressed confidence in the party’s victory, saying Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will be “gone” on May 4.

West Bengal: Gunmen attack BJP district secretary’s house in Noapara ahead of counting

Counting of votes for the Assembly elections held in Tamil Nadu, Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry will be taken on Monday (May 4, 2026). Counting for all 126 seats in Assam will be held at 40 counting centres across all 35 districts amid tight security. The fate of 294 candidates in West Bengal and 234 candidates in Tamil Nadu will also be decided tomorrow.&nbsp;In the Assembly Elections, the spotlight is not just on parties but also on key political faces whose performance could shape results and future strategies. Here's a list of key candidates state-wise to look at.<h3>1. Tamil Nadu</h3>The election is primarily a battle between the ruling DMK-led alliance and the opposition front led by the AIADMK, with the BJP and newly formed regional forces making strategic pushes. &nbsp;<ul><li>M. K. Stalin (DMK): The current Chief Minister is leading the DMK and seeking a second consecutive term based on his government's welfare schemes. &nbsp;</li><li>Edappadi K. Palaniswami (AIADMK): As the primary opposition leader, his performance is critical to the survival and resurgence of the AIADMK. &nbsp;</li><li>K. Annamalai (BJP): A prominent face for the BJP, he is contesting to significantly expand the party's presence in a traditionally Dravidian-dominated landscape. &nbsp;</li><li>Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan (BJP): The former Governor is contesting from the Mylapore constituency. &nbsp;</li><li>Vijay (TVK): Popular actor-turned-politician leading the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) alliance, acting as a potential third-front disruptor. &nbsp;</li></ul><h3>2. West Bengal</h3>Following high-voltage polling phases in April 2026, the state remains a fierce battleground between the TMC and BJP. &nbsp;<ul><li>Mamata Banerjee (TMC): The Chief Minister remains the central figure for the Trinamool Congress, defending her third-term incumbency. &nbsp;</li><li>Suvendu Adhikari (BJP): Leading the charge for the BJP, Adhikari remains a key challenger and face of the opposition in the state. &nbsp;</li><li>Sukumar Roy (BJP): Contesting from Coch Behar Uttar, a key seat in North Bengal. &nbsp;</li><li>Savitri Barman (BJP): A notable candidate contesting from the sensitive Sitalkuchi constituency. &nbsp;</li></ul><h3>3. Kerala</h3>The state is witnessing a tight contest between the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF).&nbsp;<ul><li>Pinarayi Vijayan (LDF): The Chief Minister is seeking a historic third term from his stronghold in Dharmadam. &nbsp;</li><li>V. Sivankutty (CPI-M): Defending his seat in Nemom, a high-profile Thiruvananthapuram constituency. &nbsp;</li><li>Rajeev Chandrasekhar (BJP): The BJP Kerala President is locked in a three-cornered fight in Nemom, a seat the BJP previously won in 2016. &nbsp;</li><li>V. D. Satheesan (UDF): Leading the Congress-backed UDF challenge against the LDF government. &nbsp;</li><li>KK Shailaja (CPI-M): The former Health Minister is contesting from Peravoor this time. &nbsp;</li></ul><h3>4. Assam</h3>The BJP in Assam aims to maintain its dominance under the leadership of its strongman CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. &nbsp;<ul><li>Himanta Biswa Sarma (BJP): The dominant force in Assam politics, Sarma is leading the BJP's campaign for another term. &nbsp;</li><li>Gaurav Gogoi (Congress): A key face of the opposition, contesting from Jorhat. &nbsp;</li><li>Bhupen Kumar Borah (BJP): Formerly a Congress leader, he is now a key candidate for the BJP, reflecting significant political shifts in the state. &nbsp;</li><li>Debabrata Saikia (Congress): The senior leader is defending his traditional seat in Nazira. &nbsp;</li></ul><h3>5. Puducherry</h3>The Union Territory is seeing a head-to-head battle between the NDA and the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA). &nbsp;<ul><li>N. Rangasamy (AINRC): The incumbent Chief Minister is contesting from two seats, Thattanchavady and Mangalam.&nbsp;</li><li>V. Vaithilingam (Congress): Former CM and senior Congress leader directly challenging Rangasamy in the Thattanchavady constituency. &nbsp;</li><li>A. Namassivayam (BJP): The state's Home Minister and key NDA face contesting from the rural Mannadipet seat. &nbsp;</li></ul>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-assembly-elections-2026-women-candidates-rise-in-numbers-but-men-still-dominate-the-field-1777804676069">Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Women candidates rise in numbers - but men still dominate the field</a>

The election in Tamil Nadu is primarily a battle between the ruling DMK-led alliance and the opposition front led by the AIADMK, with the BJP and newly formed regional forces making strategic pushes.  Meanwhile, a fierce battleground between the TMC and BJP remains in West Bengal.

Counting of votes for the Assembly elections held in Tamil Nadu, Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry will be taken on Monday (May 4, 2026). Counting for all 126 seats in Assam will be held at 40 counting centres across all 35 districts amid tight security. The fate of 294 candidates in West Bengal and 234 candidates in Tamil Nadu will also be decided tomorrow. In the Assembly Elections, the spotlight is not just on parties but also on key political faces whose performance could shape results and future strategies. Here's a list of key candidates state-wise to look at. 1. Tamil Nadu The election is primarily a battle between the ruling DMK-led alliance and the opposition front led by the AIADMK, with the BJP and newly formed regional forces making strategic pushes. M. K. Stalin (DMK): The current Chief Minister is leading the DMK and seeking a second consecutive term based on his government's welfare schemes. Edappadi K. Palaniswami (AIADMK): As the primary opposition leader, his performance is critical to the survival and resurgence of the AIADMK. K. Annamalai (BJP): A prominent face for the BJP, he is contesting to significantly expand the party's presence in a traditionally Dravidian-dominated landscape. Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan (BJP): The former Governor is contesting from the Mylapore constituency. Vijay (TVK): Popular actor-turned-politician leading the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) alliance, acting as a potential third-front disruptor. 2. West Bengal Following high-voltage polling phases in April 2026, the state remains a fierce battleground between the TMC and BJP. Mamata Banerjee (TMC): The Chief Minister remains the central figure for the Trinamool Congress, defending her third-term incumbency. Suvendu Adhikari (BJP): Leading the charge for the BJP, Adhikari remains a key challenger and face of the opposition in the state. Sukumar Roy (BJP): Contesting from Coch Behar Uttar, a key seat in North Bengal. Savitri Barman (BJP): A notable candidate contesting from the sensitive Sitalkuchi constituency. 3. Kerala The state is witnessing a tight contest between the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF). Pinarayi Vijayan (LDF): The Chief Minister is seeking a historic third term from his stronghold in Dharmadam. V. Sivankutty (CPI-M): Defending his seat in Nemom, a high-profile Thiruvananthapuram constituency. Rajeev Chandrasekhar (BJP): The BJP Kerala President is locked in a three-cornered fight in Nemom, a seat the BJP previously won in 2016. V. D. Satheesan (UDF): Leading the Congress-backed UDF challenge against the LDF government. KK Shailaja (CPI-M): The former Health Minister is contesting from Peravoor this time. 4. Assam The BJP in Assam aims to maintain its dominance under the leadership of its strongman CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. Himanta Biswa Sarma (BJP): The dominant force in Assam politics, Sarma is leading the BJP's campaign for another term. Gaurav Gogoi (Congress): A key face of the opposition, contesting from Jorhat. Bhupen Kumar Borah (BJP): Formerly a Congress leader, he is now a key candidate for the BJP, reflecting significant political shifts in the state. Debabrata Saikia (Congress): The senior leader is defending his traditional seat in Nazira. 5. Puducherry The Union Territory is seeing a head-to-head battle between the NDA and the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA). N. Rangasamy (AINRC): The incumbent Chief Minister is contesting from two seats, Thattanchavady and Mangalam. V. Vaithilingam (Congress): Former CM and senior Congress leader directly challenging Rangasamy in the Thattanchavady constituency. A. Namassivayam (BJP): The state's Home Minister and key NDA face contesting from the rural Mannadipet seat. Also read: Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Women candidates rise in numbers - but men still dominate the field

The election in Tamil Nadu is primarily a battle between the ruling DMK-led alliance and the opposition front led by the AIADMK, with the BJP and newly formed regional forces making strategic pushes. &nbsp;Meanwhile, a fierce battleground between the TMC and BJP remains in West Bengal.

Assembly election results 2026: State-wise key candidates to watch – full list inside

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday (May 2) expressed confidence that her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), will secure a decisive mandate in the ongoing assembly elections, asserting that it will win more than 200 seats.&nbsp;Addressing counting agents via video conferencing, Banerjee dismissed exit poll projections, claiming they were aimed at influencing financial markets. “We are winning and winning by 200+ seats. Exit polls are nothing but an attempt to manipulate the stock market. They did in 2021, 2024, and now,” she said, according to ANI.&nbsp;She also alleged that personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces engaged in excesses against party workers during the polling process. Banerjee said the party would recognise and reward those who, according to her, faced such actions.&nbsp;Her remarks come amid repolling in parts of the South 24 Parganas district following allegations by Amit Malviya of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who claimed that voters were prevented from choosing BJP candidates at several polling booths in Falta under the Diamond Harbour constituency.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/kerala-shocker-captive-elephant-goes-on-rampage-flips-cars-like-toy-leaves-one-dead-video-1777798679671">Kerala shocker: Captive elephant goes on rampage, flips cars like toy, leaves one dead - VIDEO</a>&nbsp;Polling authorities reported a strong turnout during the repolling exercise. According to officials, voter participation reached 72.5 per cent across 11 polling booths in Magrahat Paschim and 72.36 per cent across four booths in Diamond Harbour, with a combined turnout of 72.43 per cent recorded till 3 pm on Saturday (May 2).&nbsp;The West Bengal assembly elections were conducted in two phases on April 23 and April 29. Exit polls have indicated a closely contested race, with some agencies projecting an advantage for the BJP, while others suggest a tighter contest. The results of the election are scheduled to be declared on May 4, which will determine whether Banerjee secures a fourth consecutive term as chief minister or the BJP debuts.

Mamata Banerjee expressed confidence in securing a fourth term, predicting over 200 seats for the TMC while dismissing exit polls as market manipulation. Results are expected on May 4 following a high-stakes, two-phase election and recent repolling.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday (May 2) expressed confidence that her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), will secure a decisive mandate in the ongoing assembly elections, asserting that it will win more than 200 seats. Addressing counting agents via video conferencing, Banerjee dismissed exit poll projections, claiming they were aimed at influencing financial markets. “We are winning and winning by 200+ seats. Exit polls are nothing but an attempt to manipulate the stock market. They did in 2021, 2024, and now,” she said, according to ANI. She also alleged that personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces engaged in excesses against party workers during the polling process. Banerjee said the party would recognise and reward those who, according to her, faced such actions. Her remarks come amid repolling in parts of the South 24 Parganas district following allegations by Amit Malviya of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who claimed that voters were prevented from choosing BJP candidates at several polling booths in Falta under the Diamond Harbour constituency. Also read: Kerala shocker: Captive elephant goes on rampage, flips cars like toy, leaves one dead - VIDEO Polling authorities reported a strong turnout during the repolling exercise. According to officials, voter participation reached 72.5 per cent across 11 polling booths in Magrahat Paschim and 72.36 per cent across four booths in Diamond Harbour, with a combined turnout of 72.43 per cent recorded till 3 pm on Saturday (May 2). The West Bengal assembly elections were conducted in two phases on April 23 and April 29. Exit polls have indicated a closely contested race, with some agencies projecting an advantage for the BJP, while others suggest a tighter contest. The results of the election are scheduled to be declared on May 4, which will determine whether Banerjee secures a fourth consecutive term as chief minister or the BJP debuts.

Mamata Banerjee expressed confidence in securing a fourth term, predicting over 200 seats for the TMC while dismissing exit polls as market manipulation. Results are expected on May 4 following a high-stakes, two-phase election and recent repolling.

West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Will Mamata Banerjee be sworn in as West Bengal CM for 4th term? Here is what we know

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered a complete repoll in West Bengal’s Falta Assembly constituency, citing what it described as “severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process” during polling held on Wednesday (April 29). In an official directive, the poll body said fresh voting will take place across all 285 polling stations in the constituency, including auxiliary booths, on May 21. Polling will be conducted from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the counting of votes scheduled for May 24.&nbsp;“On consideration of severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process during the polling in a large number of polling stations on 29 April 2026 in 144-Falta Assembly Constituency, West Bengal, the ECI directs that a fresh poll shall be conducted in all the 285 polling stations, including auxiliary polling stations,” the Commission said in its order. As a result of the decision, counting for the 293 Assembly seats in the state, excluding Falta, will now proceed on May 4.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-protests-erupt-in-falta-as-residents-allege-intimidation-before-may-4-counting-1777724375375">West Bengal: Protests in Falta over alleged TMC intimidation ahead of counting</a><h2>Political reactions to repolling&nbsp;</h2>Reacting to the development, Abhishek Banerjee, General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and MP from Diamond Harbour, asserted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would not win the seat. Referring to what he termed the “Diamond Harbour model”, Banerjee said it would remain unaffected and challenged opponents to contest strongly in the constituency.&nbsp;The ECI’s move comes amid a political row between the Bharatiya Janata Party and TMC over alleged irregularities. The BJP had earlier claimed that electronic voting machines were tampered with during the second phase of polling, alleging that its button had been taped in several booths in Falta, located in the South 24 Parganas district.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-heads-into-final-phase-of-high-stakes-assembly-polls-mamata-banerjee-among-over-1-000-candidates-in-fray-1777397910602">West Bengal heads to final phase of polls; CM Mamata among over 1,400 in fray</a>&nbsp;TMC rejected the allegations, accusing the BJP of raising false claims in anticipation of defeat. The party also criticised the Election Commission and police observer Ajay Pal Sharma, whom it had earlier accused of intimidating its candidate Jehangir Khan. The BJP denied these charges.&nbsp;Earlier, the ECI had ordered repolling in 15 booths across Diamond Harbour and Magrahat Paschim constituencies following complaints of irregularities. Voting in those booths recorded a turnout of over 90 per cent.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India has ordered a full repoll for West Bengal’s Falta Assembly constituency on May 21, 2026, citing “severe electoral offences.” While results for the other 293 seats are due May 4, Falta’s counting is deferred to May 24.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered a complete repoll in West Bengal’s Falta Assembly constituency, citing what it described as “severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process” during polling held on Wednesday (April 29). In an official directive, the poll body said fresh voting will take place across all 285 polling stations in the constituency, including auxiliary booths, on May 21. Polling will be conducted from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the counting of votes scheduled for May 24. “On consideration of severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process during the polling in a large number of polling stations on 29 April 2026 in 144-Falta Assembly Constituency, West Bengal, the ECI directs that a fresh poll shall be conducted in all the 285 polling stations, including auxiliary polling stations,” the Commission said in its order. As a result of the decision, counting for the 293 Assembly seats in the state, excluding Falta, will now proceed on May 4. Also read: West Bengal: Protests in Falta over alleged TMC intimidation ahead of counting Political reactions to repolling Reacting to the development, Abhishek Banerjee, General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and MP from Diamond Harbour, asserted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would not win the seat. Referring to what he termed the “Diamond Harbour model”, Banerjee said it would remain unaffected and challenged opponents to contest strongly in the constituency. The ECI’s move comes amid a political row between the Bharatiya Janata Party and TMC over alleged irregularities. The BJP had earlier claimed that electronic voting machines were tampered with during the second phase of polling, alleging that its button had been taped in several booths in Falta, located in the South 24 Parganas district. Also read: West Bengal heads to final phase of polls; CM Mamata among over 1,400 in fray TMC rejected the allegations, accusing the BJP of raising false claims in anticipation of defeat. The party also criticised the Election Commission and police observer Ajay Pal Sharma, whom it had earlier accused of intimidating its candidate Jehangir Khan. The BJP denied these charges. Earlier, the ECI had ordered repolling in 15 booths across Diamond Harbour and Magrahat Paschim constituencies following complaints of irregularities. Voting in those booths recorded a turnout of over 90 per cent.

The Election Commission of India has ordered a full repoll for West Bengal’s Falta Assembly constituency on May 21, 2026, citing “severe electoral offences.” While results for the other 293 seats are due May 4, Falta’s counting is deferred to May 24.

West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Repoll in Falta on May 21 due to ‘severe electoral offences’ in the constituency

West Bengal &nbsp;Assembly Elections 2026: Tension flared in Nowda, in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, during polling on Thursday (Apr 23) after a crude bomb was allegedly thrown near a voting area, leaving several people injured. The incident occurred in the middle of voting hours, triggering panic among voters and residents in the locality. Eyewitness accounts suggested a sudden blast disrupted the otherwise steady polling process, with people scrambling to move to safety.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-assembly-elections-2026-mamata-banerjee-narendra-modi-tmc-bjp-what-to-expect-phase-1-polls-1776905040581">West Bengal votes today: Mamata Banerjee faces her toughest test yet</a><h2>What happened in Nowda?</h2>Initial reports indicate that multiple individuals sustained injuries in the explosion. They have been taken to nearby medical facilities, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of casualties or the severity of injuries.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | West Bengal Election 2026: Several people injured as unidentified people hurled crude bomb in Nowda, Murshidabad district. More details are awaited.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AssemblyPollsWithPTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AssemblyPollsWithPTI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengalPollsWithPTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengalPollsWithPTI</a> (Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>) <a href="https://t.co/W7G5A9OqR6">pic.twitter.com/W7G5A9OqR6</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2047164192692826170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Security forces reached the spot shortly after the incident and have since launched search operations in the area. Police are attempting to identify those responsible and determine whether the attack was linked to the ongoing election process.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-why-didn-t-she-save-my-daughter-mother-of-rg-kar-rape-murder-victim-enters-west-bengal-election-fray-vows-to-defeat-mamata-banerjee-1775707531406">'Why didn't she save my daughter?': Mother of RG Kar rape-murder victim enters West Bengal election fray, vows to defeat Mamata Banerjee</a>Talking to the press later, Murshidabad ASP Majid Khan said, “The situation is peaceful. Nothing has happened anywhere...”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Murshidabad, West Bengal: ASP Majid Khan, says, &quot;The situation is peaceful. Nothing has happened anywhere...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/EnfCtiAmLd">https://t.co/EnfCtiAmLd</a> <a href="https://t.co/8tA8M18anU">pic.twitter.com/8tA8M18anU</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047179682697859406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>152 constituencies, 3.22 crore voters</h2>West Bengal went to the polls today (Thursday Apr 23) with 152 constituencies across the state voting in Phase 1. Over 3.22 crore voters will cast their ballots in Phase 1, the opening act of a two-phase contest that will ultimately determine whether Mamata Banerjee secures an unprecedented fourth consecutive term as Chief Minister, or whether the BJP finally comes to power in a state it has been chasing for years.Polling, which began at 7:00 am across the state for Phase 1 of the Assembly elections, has largely continued under heightened security, even as isolated incidents like this raise concerns. Authorities have not issued a detailed statement so far. The incident comes amid an already tense electoral atmosphere in parts of West Bengal, where polling has historically seen sporadic violence.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-blog-west-bengal-tamil-nadu-assembly-elections-2026-live-updates-voting-day-election-commission-of-india-aiadmk-dmk-bjp-congress-tmc-1776907499083">You can check LIVE updates on West Bengal Assembly elections 206 HERE</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Crude bomb disrupts voting in West Bengal: Tension erupted in Murshidabad after a crude bomb was thrown near a polling area during Phase 1, injuring several people.

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West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Tension flared in Nowda, in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, during polling on Thursday (Apr 23) after a crude bomb was allegedly thrown near a voting area, leaving several people injured. The incident occurred in the middle of voting hours, triggering panic among voters and residents in the locality. Eyewitness accounts suggested a sudden blast disrupted the otherwise steady polling process, with people scrambling to move to safety. Also read | West Bengal votes today: Mamata Banerjee faces her toughest test yet What happened in Nowda? Initial reports indicate that multiple individuals sustained injuries in the explosion. They have been taken to nearby medical facilities, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of casualties or the severity of injuries.

Crude bomb disrupts voting in West Bengal: Tension erupted in Murshidabad after a crude bomb was thrown near a polling area during Phase 1, injuring several people.Scroll down to read more.

West Bengal poll violence: Crude bomb hurled in Murshidabad’s Nowda, several injured | WATCH

West Bengal goes to the polls today (Thursday Apr 23) with 152 constituencies across the state voting in Phase 1. Over 3.22 crore voters will cast their ballots in Phase 1, the opening act of a two-phase contest that will ultimately determine whether Mamata Banerjee secures an unprecedented fourth consecutive term as Chief Minister, or whether the BJP finally comes to power in a state it has been chasing for years. The Thursday polls are slated to be a decisive contest between the incumbent Trinamool Congress (TMC) and a resurgent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-put-democracy-in-jeopardy-sc-raps-cm-mamata-banerjee-for-interfering-in-ed-raid-at-i-pac-premises-1776866314032">‘Put democracy in jeopardy’: SC raps Mamata for interfering in ED’s I-PAC raid</a><h2>What the final 48 hours of campaigning looked like</h2>The final days of campaigning have been exactly as bruising as expected, with personal attacks, landmark manifestos and a record-breaking enforcement drive by the Election Commission.Amit Shah led the BJP's closing push with a blizzard of rallies and roadshows, hitting Mamata on law and order, corruption, infiltration and what he called "syndicate raj." He promised Rs 9,000 for farmers, Rs 3,000 monthly for women and unemployed youth, and one crore jobs, a manifesto his party calls "Sonar Bangla."TMC dismissed it as "a recycled catalogue of jumlas," with Mamata calling it a "report card of failed assurances." The outsider narrative remains TMC's sharpest weapon. When Shah allegedly mispronounced the name of Bengali poet Satyendranath Dutta at a rally, the party pounced. "How illiterate can one be about the land they seek to govern? Those who cannot name Bengal's icons correctly have no business claiming to be Bengal's guardians," the TMC said in a statement, slamming BJP as Bangla-Birodhi Bohiragotos (outsider). The party also filed a complaint accusing the BJP of running special trains from Surat to Bengal to move voters, calling it electoral bribery. BJP denied it.<h2>Most watched contests</h2>Among the most watched contests tomorrow is Bhabanipur, where Mamata herself faces Suvendu Adhikari, the man who defeated her in Nandigram in 2021 by fewer than 2,000 votes. Both seats carry enormous symbolic weight. Other critical matchups include Kharagpur Sadar, where Dilip Ghosh makes his return, and Murshidabad, decided by just 2,400 votes last time.The Election Commission has seized over Rs 1,000 crore in cash, liquor and goods, deploying more than 5,000 Flying Squad teams across the state.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-elections-2026-from-suvendu-adhikari-to-humayun-kabir-a-look-at-key-faces-and-seats-in-phase-1-1776668622628">West Bengal Elections 2026:A look at key faces and seats in Phase 1</a><h2>SIR issue</h2>The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls remains a divisive issue. The SIR exercise has resulted in the deletion of anywhere between 60 and 90 lakh names, shrinking the voter base from roughly 7.66 crore to 7.04 crore. TMC calls it voter suppression. The BJP calls it long-overdue housecleaning.In 2021, TMC won over 200 seats with nearly 48.5 per cent of the vote. The BJP's 77 seats represented a significant breakthrough for a party that had previously struggled in Bengal. The question tomorrow is whether that breakthrough was a ceiling or a floor. Phase 2 is set to happen on April 29, and counting is on May 4.&nbsp;

Is West Bengal heading for a political shake-up or continuity? Voting begins across 152 seats as Mamata Banerjee faces a strong challenge from Amit Shah’s BJP.

Will it be a fourth term or a breakthrough moment?

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West Bengal goes to the polls today (Thursday Apr 23) with 152 constituencies across the state voting in Phase 1. Over 3.22 crore voters will cast their ballots in Phase 1, the opening act of a two-phase contest that will ultimately determine whether Mamata Banerjee secures an unprecedented fourth consecutive term as Chief Minister, or whether the BJP finally comes to power in a state it has been chasing for years. The Thursday polls are slated to be a decisive contest between the incumbent Trinamool Congress (TMC) and a resurgent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Also read | ‘Put democracy in jeopardy’: SC raps Mamata for interfering in ED’s I-PAC raid What the final 48 hours of campaigning looked like The final days of campaigning have been exactly as bruising as expected, with personal attacks, landmark manifestos and a record-breaking enforcement drive by the Election Commission. Amit Shah led the BJP's closing push with a blizzard of rallies and roadshows, hitting Mamata on law and order, corruption, infiltration and what he called "syndicate raj." He promised Rs 9,000 for farmers, Rs 3,000 monthly for women and unemployed youth, and one crore jobs, a manifesto his party calls "Sonar Bangla." TMC dismissed it as "a recycled catalogue of jumlas," with Mamata calling it a "report card of failed assurances." The outsider narrative remains TMC's sharpest weapon. When Shah allegedly mispronounced the name of Bengali poet Satyendranath Dutta at a rally, the party pounced. "How illiterate can one be about the land they seek to govern? Those who cannot name Bengal's icons correctly have no business claiming to be Bengal's guardians," the TMC said in a statement, slamming BJP as Bangla-Birodhi Bohiragotos (outsider). The party also filed a complaint accusing the BJP of running special trains from Surat to Bengal to move voters, calling it electoral bribery. BJP denied it. Most watched contests Among the most watched contests tomorrow is Bhabanipur, where Mamata herself faces Suvendu Adhikari, the man who defeated her in Nandigram in 2021 by fewer than 2,000 votes. Both seats carry enormous symbolic weight. Other critical matchups include Kharagpur Sadar, where Dilip Ghosh makes his return, and Murshidabad, decided by just 2,400 votes last time. The Election Commission has seized over Rs 1,000 crore in cash, liquor and goods, deploying more than 5,000 Flying Squad teams across the state. Also read | West Bengal Elections 2026:A look at key faces and seats in Phase 1 SIR issue The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls remains a divisive issue. The SIR exercise has resulted in the deletion of anywhere between 60 and 90 lakh names, shrinking the voter base from roughly 7.66 crore to 7.04 crore. TMC calls it voter suppression. The BJP calls it long-overdue housecleaning. In 2021, TMC won over 200 seats with nearly 48.5 per cent of the vote. The BJP's 77 seats represented a significant breakthrough for a party that had previously struggled in Bengal. The question tomorrow is whether that breakthrough was a ceiling or a floor. Phase 2 is set to happen on April 29, and counting is on May 4.

Is West Bengal heading for a political shake-up or continuity? Voting begins across 152 seats as Mamata Banerjee faces a strong challenge from Amit Shah’s BJP.Will it be a fourth term or a breakthrough moment?Scroll down to read more.

West Bengal votes today: Everything at stake as Mamata Banerjee faces her toughest test yet

West Bengal Phase 1 elections highlight a fierce Modi vs Mamata contest, blending welfare politics, identity narratives, temple outreach, and celebrity campaigning. BJP shifts from attacks to welfare promises, while TMC defends its schemes, making Bengal a symbolic ideological battleground.

West Bengal Phase 1 elections highlight a fierce Modi vs Mamata contest, blending welfare politics, identity narratives, temple outreach, and celebrity campaigning. BJP shifts from attacks to welfare promises, while TMC defends its schemes, making Bengal a symbolic ideological battleground.

TMC, BJP make West Bengal Election campaign a 'fishy' affair: Phase 1 ends with a bit of 'jhalmuri', Phase 2 relies on 'revri'

The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021 is set for April 23, marking a crucial moment in the state’s high-stakes political battle. This phase covers several key constituencies and has drawn national attention due to intense campaigning and sharp political rivalries. Among the prominent candidates is Suvendu Adhikari, considered a major face of the BJP in the state. The contest reflects a broader struggle for power between dominant regional forces and national parties, making the opening phase a significant indicator of the election’s overall direction.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-stalin-to-vijay-a-look-at-key-faces-and-seats-in-tamil-nadu-assembly-elections-1776240734260">From Stalin to Vijay: A look at key faces and seats in Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections</a><h3>Nandigram: Suvendu Adhikari vs Pabitra Kar</h3>In Nandigram, the spotlight is once again on BJP's main face in Bengal - Suvendu Adhikari - who faces Pabitra Kar of the TMC. Adhikari, once a close aide of Mamata Banerjee, has since become one of her fiercest rivals. He is contesting again from Nandigram, a seat he famously won in 2021 by defeating Banerjee, and is also in the fray from Bhabanipur. Nandigram holds deep political significance for Banerjee, as it was the epicentre of the 2007 anti-land acquisition movement that propelled her and the TMC to power in West Bengal. Her defeat here in 2021 was both symbolic and politically significant. This makes the constituency not just an electoral battleground, but a prestige fight closely tied to Banerjee’s political legacy.<h3>Baharampur: Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury vs Subrata Maitra</h3>In Baharampur, a high-profile contest is unfolding between Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and Subrata Maitra. A veteran leader of the Indian National Congress, Chowdhury is a five-time MP from Baharampur and has served as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. He is now contesting the assembly election after his defeat in the 2024 parliamentary polls. Facing him is Maitra of the Bharatiya Janata Party, the sitting MLA, making this a closely watched battle with significant political stakes in the constituency.<h3>Asansol Dakshin: Agnimitra Paul vs Tapas Banerjee</h3>Agnimitra Paul, a prominent BJP face in the state, returns to defend her position after her 2021 win. She is challenged by TMC’s Tapas Banerjee, a seasoned politician who previously held the seat for a decade.<h2>Kharagpur Sadar: Dilip Ghosh vs Pradip Sarkar</h2>In Kharagpur Sadar, the contest brings together two strong political figures: Dilip Ghosh of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Pradip Sarkar of the All India Trinamool Congress. A senior BJP leader and former state president of the party, Ghosh previously won this seat in 2016 and is seeking to reclaim it, banking on his organisational strength and grassroots appeal. His rival, Pradip Sarkar, represents the ruling TMC and had secured victory in the 2019 bypoll, giving the party control over the constituency. The contest is seen as a direct face-off between BJP’s early expansion in the region and TMC’s consolidation of its position in subsequent years.<h3>Mathabhanga: Nisith Pramanik vs Sablu Barman</h3>In Mathabhanga (SC), the contest features a high-profile face-off between Nisith Pramanik of the BJP and Sablu Barman of the TMC. Pramanik, a former Union minister and influential BJP leader in North Bengal, is seen as a key figure in the party’s efforts to consolidate its base in the region’s Scheduled Caste constituencies.On the other side, Sablu Barman represents the ruling TMC’s attempt to retain control of the seat amid a multi-cornered contest that also includes candidates from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Indian National Congress.<h3>Domkal: Humayun Kabir vs Mostafijur Rahaman</h3>Former IPS officer Humayun Kabir, once known for his tough policing and crackdown on organised crime, is contesting from Domkal in Murshidabad district.Kabir, a 2003-batch IPS officer of the West Bengal cadre, had earned a reputation of taking on hardened criminals, including the arrest of notorious gangster “Hathkata Dilip.” Now re-entering the electoral fray, he has been fielded by TMC from Domkal instead of Debra, where he had previously contested. He is up against Mostafijur Rahaman of the Communist Party of India (Marxist).<h2>Rejinagar: Humayun Kabir vs Ataur Rahaman&nbsp;</h2>Humayun Kabir, a former TMC MLA from Bharatpur who was expelled from the party in December 2025 following controversies surrounding the proposed construction of a Babri Masjid replica, is contesting from Rejinagar and Naoda (Nowda) in Murshidabad district. A former TMC minister, now contesting under his own banner, the Aam Janata Unnayan Party, after his expulsion from the TMC. He is up against Ataur Rahaman of TMC. The BJP has nominated Bapan Ghosh, and Congress candidate is Jillu Sheikh. In 2021, TMC won the seat. Interestingly, HUmayun Kabir is also contesting from Nowda against BJP's Rana Mondal, TMC's Shaina Momtaz Khan and Congress' Matiur Rahman.<h3>Maldaha (SC): Lipika Barman Ghosh vs Gopal Chandra Saha</h3>The Maldaha (SC) seat is witnessing a keen contest between Lipika Barman Ghosh of the TMC and Gopal Chandra Saha of the BJP. The constituency holds strategic importance within the SC/ST belt of Malda district, where electoral dynamics have been evolving rapidly. Once considered a bastion of the Indian National Congress (INC), the region saw a notable shift during the 2019 elections, when the BJP made significant inroads.&nbsp;<h2>Raiganj: Kaushik Choudhury vs Krishna Kalyani&nbsp;</h2>TMC's Krishna Kalyani, who had earlier won the seat on a BJP ticket in 2024 before switching sides, is now contesting against BJP’s Kaushik Choudhury. Raiganj has emerged as a crucial battleground, with a significant Muslim electorate—around 42–49percent—often playing a decisive role in determining the outcome. Over the past decade, the seat has witnessed major political shifts, moving from Congress to CPI(M) in 2014, then to the BJP in 2019, and now becoming a closely fought contest between the BJP and TMC. Bordering Bangladesh, the constituency is sensitive to issues such as cross-border movement, the role of border security forces, and policies like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), all of which influence voter sentiment.<h2>Other key constituencies</h2>Other key constituencies to watch include Balurghat, Onda, Darjeeling, and Jangipur, each reflecting distinct regional and political dynamics. In Jangipur, the All India Trinamool Congress has fielded Jakir Hossain, a prominent businessman known as the “bidi king.” ADR report highlight his significant financial profile, with declared assets worth around ₹133 crore, making him the richest candidates in the fray. &nbsp;In Onda, the contest draws attention due to the presence of Subrata Dutta, who has been noted in reports for having the highest number of criminal cases among candidates in this set of constituencies. The seat remains a key TMC–BJP battleground, reflecting both anti-incumbency concerns and organisational strength on the ground. In Balurghat, rural and border-area issues dominate the narrative. Darjeeling continues to remain politically sensitive in the hill region, where identity, autonomy, and regional party alliances play a decisive role, with the BJP and its local partners competing against the TMC’s expansion efforts.<h2>Which day will decide the fate of West Bengal Assembly?</h2>The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced that polling for all 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29. The counting of votes is set for May 4, with the entire election process expected to conclude by May 6. The state has a total electorate of over 6.45 crore voters. According to the ECI, the first phase will cover 152 constituencies. The deadline for filing nominations is April 6, followed by scrutiny on April 7, while candidates can withdraw their nominations until April 9. The second phase will include 142 constituencies, with its notification scheduled for April 2, 2026. Candidates can submit nominations until April 9, with scrutiny on April 10 and withdrawal permitted until April 13. In the last West Bengal Assembly election held in 2021, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, won a decisive landslide victory.

Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari lead a fierce BJP–TMC battle as West Bengal begins phase 1 polling. Key contests across 152 seats feature leaders like Dilip Ghosh, shaping the high-stakes election outcome.

The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021 is set for April 23, marking a crucial moment in the state’s high-stakes political battle. This phase covers several key constituencies and has drawn national attention due to intense campaigning and sharp political rivalries. Among the prominent candidates is Suvendu Adhikari, considered a major face of the BJP in the state. The contest reflects a broader struggle for power between dominant regional forces and national parties, making the opening phase a significant indicator of the election’s overall direction. Also Read: From Stalin to Vijay: A look at key faces and seats in Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections Nandigram: Suvendu Adhikari vs Pabitra Kar In Nandigram, the spotlight is once again on BJP's main face in Bengal - Suvendu Adhikari - who faces Pabitra Kar of the TMC. Adhikari, once a close aide of Mamata Banerjee, has since become one of her fiercest rivals. He is contesting again from Nandigram, a seat he famously won in 2021 by defeating Banerjee, and is also in the fray from Bhabanipur. Nandigram holds deep political significance for Banerjee, as it was the epicentre of the 2007 anti-land acquisition movement that propelled her and the TMC to power in West Bengal. Her defeat here in 2021 was both symbolic and politically significant. This makes the constituency not just an electoral battleground, but a prestige fight closely tied to Banerjee’s political legacy. Baharampur: Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury vs Subrata Maitra In Baharampur, a high-profile contest is unfolding between Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and Subrata Maitra. A veteran leader of the Indian National Congress, Chowdhury is a five-time MP from Baharampur and has served as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. He is now contesting the assembly election after his defeat in the 2024 parliamentary polls. Facing him is Maitra of the Bharatiya Janata Party, the sitting MLA, making this a closely watched battle with significant political stakes in the constituency. Asansol Dakshin: Agnimitra Paul vs Tapas Banerjee Agnimitra Paul, a prominent BJP face in the state, returns to defend her position after her 2021 win. She is challenged by TMC’s Tapas Banerjee, a seasoned politician who previously held the seat for a decade. Kharagpur Sadar: Dilip Ghosh vs Pradip Sarkar In Kharagpur Sadar, the contest brings together two strong political figures: Dilip Ghosh of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Pradip Sarkar of the All India Trinamool Congress. A senior BJP leader and former state president of the party, Ghosh previously won this seat in 2016 and is seeking to reclaim it, banking on his organisational strength and grassroots appeal. His rival, Pradip Sarkar, represents the ruling TMC and had secured victory in the 2019 bypoll, giving the party control over the constituency. The contest is seen as a direct face-off between BJP’s early expansion in the region and TMC’s consolidation of its position in subsequent years. Mathabhanga: Nisith Pramanik vs Sablu Barman In Mathabhanga (SC), the contest features a high-profile face-off between Nisith Pramanik of the BJP and Sablu Barman of the TMC. Pramanik, a former Union minister and influential BJP leader in North Bengal, is seen as a key figure in the party’s efforts to consolidate its base in the region’s Scheduled Caste constituencies.On the other side, Sablu Barman represents the ruling TMC’s attempt to retain control of the seat amid a multi-cornered contest that also includes candidates from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Indian National Congress. Domkal: Humayun Kabir vs Mostafijur Rahaman Former IPS officer Humayun Kabir, once known for his tough policing and crackdown on organised crime, is contesting from Domkal in Murshidabad district. Kabir, a 2003-batch IPS officer of the West Bengal cadre, had earned a reputation of taking on hardened criminals, including the arrest of notorious gangster “Hathkata Dilip.” Now re-entering the electoral fray, he has been fielded by TMC from Domkal instead of Debra, where he had previously contested. He is up against Mostafijur Rahaman of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Rejinagar: Humayun Kabir vs Ataur Rahaman Humayun Kabir, a former TMC MLA from Bharatpur who was expelled from the party in December 2025 following controversies surrounding the proposed construction of a Babri Masjid replica, is contesting from Rejinagar and Naoda (Nowda) in Murshidabad district. A former TMC minister, now contesting under his own banner, the Aam Janata Unnayan Party, after his expulsion from the TMC. He is up against Ataur Rahaman of TMC. The BJP has nominated Bapan Ghosh, and Congress candidate is Jillu Sheikh. In 2021, TMC won the seat. Interestingly, HUmayun Kabir is also contesting from Nowda against BJP's Rana Mondal, TMC's Shaina Momtaz Khan and Congress' Matiur Rahman. Maldaha (SC): Lipika Barman Ghosh vs Gopal Chandra Saha The Maldaha (SC) seat is witnessing a keen contest between Lipika Barman Ghosh of the TMC and Gopal Chandra Saha of the BJP. The constituency holds strategic importance within the SC/ST belt of Malda district, where electoral dynamics have been evolving rapidly. Once considered a bastion of the Indian National Congress (INC), the region saw a notable shift during the 2019 elections, when the BJP made significant inroads. Raiganj: Kaushik Choudhury vs Krishna Kalyani TMC's Krishna Kalyani, who had earlier won the seat on a BJP ticket in 2024 before switching sides, is now contesting against BJP’s Kaushik Choudhury. Raiganj has emerged as a crucial battleground, with a significant Muslim electorate—around 42–49percent—often playing a decisive role in determining the outcome. Over the past decade, the seat has witnessed major political shifts, moving from Congress to CPI(M) in 2014, then to the BJP in 2019, and now becoming a closely fought contest between the BJP and TMC. Bordering Bangladesh, the constituency is sensitive to issues such as cross-border movement, the role of border security forces, and policies like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), all of which influence voter sentiment. Other key constituencies Other key constituencies to watch include Balurghat, Onda, Darjeeling, and Jangipur, each reflecting distinct regional and political dynamics. In Jangipur, the All India Trinamool Congress has fielded Jakir Hossain, a prominent businessman known as the “bidi king.” ADR report highlight his significant financial profile, with declared assets worth around ₹133 crore, making him the richest candidates in the fray. In Onda, the contest draws attention due to the presence of Subrata Dutta, who has been noted in reports for having the highest number of criminal cases among candidates in this set of constituencies. The seat remains a key TMC–BJP battleground, reflecting both anti-incumbency concerns and organisational strength on the ground. In Balurghat, rural and border-area issues dominate the narrative. Darjeeling continues to remain politically sensitive in the hill region, where identity, autonomy, and regional party alliances play a decisive role, with the BJP and its local partners competing against the TMC’s expansion efforts. Which day will decide the fate of West Bengal Assembly? The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced that polling for all 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29. The counting of votes is set for May 4, with the entire election process expected to conclude by May 6. The state has a total electorate of over 6.45 crore voters. According to the ECI, the first phase will cover 152 constituencies. The deadline for filing nominations is April 6, followed by scrutiny on April 7, while candidates can withdraw their nominations until April 9. The second phase will include 142 constituencies, with its notification scheduled for April 2, 2026. Candidates can submit nominations until April 9, with scrutiny on April 10 and withdrawal permitted until April 13. In the last West Bengal Assembly election held in 2021, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, won a decisive landslide victory.

Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari lead a fierce BJP–TMC battle as West Bengal begins phase 1 polling. Key contests across 152 seats feature leaders like Dilip Ghosh, shaping the high-stakes election outcome.

West Bengal Elections 2026: From Suvendu Adhikari to Humayun Kabir - A look at key faces and seats in Phase 1

Bengal goes to vote today in first phase of assembly elections 2026 on April 22. Campaigns have been in full swing in the state. From actors, directors, sportsmen to musicians-West Bengal assembly elections 2026 is a star-studded one. 

Bengal goes to vote today in first phase of assembly elections 2026 on April 22. Campaigns have been in full swing in the state. From actors, directors, sportsmen to musicians-West Bengal assembly elections 2026 is a star-studded one.&nbsp;

West Bengal Elections 2026: Ashok Dinda, Sayantika Banerjee, Raj Chakraborty; the star-studded candidate list you need to see

The AIMIM has pulled out of a coalition with Humayun Kabir’s Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) following a sting video by the TMC. The video allegedly shows Kabir, who was previously suspended from the TMC, had an understanding with the BJP, He was seeking an amount of 200 crore of the proposed 1000 crore in advance for helping with 50-60 assembly seats in the upcoming election. In the video, as reported by PTI, he can be heard claiming connections with BJP's Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and had communication with the Prime Minister's Office.The clip also has references to how “it is easy to fool Muslims” surrounding the Babri Masjid issue, and further outlines a broad strategy to divert Muslim votes away from TMC. Kabir could be heard suggesting that he has a huge Muslim voter base with him. TMC has demanded an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate into the claims emerging from the video. TMC circulated the video widely on social media and in a press conference on Thursday.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irgc-denies-gulf-attacks-blames-israel-us-ceasefire-1775816607118">IRGC denies violating ceasefire, accuses 'zionist enemy' of any attacks</a>Announcing a withdrawal from the alliance, Asaduddin Owaisi-led AIMIM hinted at the reason due to the vulnerability of Muslims in Bengal. The party said it can't be associated with these statements. Kabir shot to prominence following claims that he plans to build a mosque in Murshidabad modelled around the infamous Babri. The party claimed that it would not enter into any alliance going forward and would compete in the West Bengal election independently. This led to his expulsion from TMC.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">पश्चिम बंगाल चुनाव के बीच हुमायूँ कबीर का सनसनीखेज वीडियो हुमायूँ कबीर ने BJP से 200 करोड़ रुपये की अग्रिम राशि की मांग की। &quot;मुसलमानों को बेवकूफ़ बनाना आसान है, -हुमायूँ बाबरी मस्जिद बने न बने लेकिन हमारा काम हो जाएगा- हुमायूँ<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/humayunkabir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#humayunkabir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengalAssemblyElection2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengalAssemblyElection2026</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TMC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TMC</a> <a href="https://t.co/xlOyKkfDgk">pic.twitter.com/xlOyKkfDgk</a>&mdash; Ravi Pandey🇮🇳 (@ravipandey2643) <a href="https://twitter.com/ravipandey2643/status/2042149773915123795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kabir, however, denied any such allegations, saying he had no contact with any BJP leader since 2019. "If they can show any proof, any photograph, let them do so," said Kabir, claiming that the video was AI-generated and that he would file a defamation case against TMC.&nbsp;

AIMIM withdraws from alliance with Humayun Kabir’s AJUP after TMC releases sting video alleging BJP links and ₹200 crore deal for Bengal polls.

The AIMIM has pulled out of a coalition with Humayun Kabir’s Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) following a sting video by the TMC. The video allegedly shows Kabir, who was previously suspended from the TMC, had an understanding with the BJP, He was seeking an amount of 200 crore of the proposed 1000 crore in advance for helping with 50-60 assembly seats in the upcoming election. In the video, as reported by PTI, he can be heard claiming connections with BJP's Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and had communication with the Prime Minister's Office. The clip also has references to how “it is easy to fool Muslims” surrounding the Babri Masjid issue, and further outlines a broad strategy to divert Muslim votes away from TMC. Kabir could be heard suggesting that he has a huge Muslim voter base with him. TMC has demanded an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate into the claims emerging from the video. TMC circulated the video widely on social media and in a press conference on Thursday. Also Read: IRGC denies violating ceasefire, accuses 'zionist enemy' of any attacks Announcing a withdrawal from the alliance, Asaduddin Owaisi-led AIMIM hinted at the reason due to the vulnerability of Muslims in Bengal. The party said it can't be associated with these statements. Kabir shot to prominence following claims that he plans to build a mosque in Murshidabad modelled around the infamous Babri. The party claimed that it would not enter into any alliance going forward and would compete in the West Bengal election independently. This led to his expulsion from TMC.

AIMIM withdraws from alliance with Humayun Kabir’s AJUP after TMC releases sting video alleging BJP links and ₹200 crore deal for Bengal polls.

AIMIM dumps alliance with Humayun Kabir over alleged 200 crore ‘deal’ with BJP

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday unveiled "six guarantees" for West Bengal, which will ensure an "accountable and fully answerable" administrative machinery to serve the people. Addressing a public rally here, the Prime Minister promised the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission, while assuring the establishment of trustful atmosphere, which will restore faith in the rule of law. He further vowed action and reopening cases of corruption, scam and women-related crimes, which took place under the TMC regime. &nbsp;The Prime Minister added that no "TMC goon" would be able to evade the law following the formation of the BJP government in the state and also pledged to provide the right to refugees guaranteed by the constitution.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-why-didn-t-she-save-my-daughter-mother-of-rg-kar-rape-murder-victim-enters-west-bengal-election-fray-vows-to-defeat-mamata-banerjee-1775707531406">RG Kar rape-murder victim's mother vows to defeat Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal</a> "I offer six guarantees to West Bengal-- 1. Modi's first guarantee: A BJP government will replace this atmosphere of fear with trust. It will restore faith in the rule of law. 2. Modi's second guarantee: Under a BJP government, the administrative machinery will be accountable--fully answerable--to the public it serves. 3. Modi's third guarantee: The files regarding every scam, every act of corruption, every injustice committed against our daughters, and every case of rape will be reopened. 4. Modi's fourth guarantee: Under the TMC's rule, whoever has engaged in corruption belongs in jail. Be it a minister or a watchman, the law will hold everyone to account. No TMC goon will be able to evade the law any longer. 5. Modi's fifth guarantee: Refugees will be granted every right and privilege guaranteed by the Constitution. However, infiltrators will be driven out; they will not be permitted to remain in India. 6. Modi's sixth guarantee: The moment a BJP government is formed here, we will implement the 7th Pay Commission," the Prime Minister said. &nbsp;PM Modi further emphasised that the state's interest lies when both the Prime Minister and Chief Minister work together towards the development of the state. He further stressed that the "double engine" government in West Bengal would work for making the state "self-reliant" in the fisheries and seafood sectors.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-fm-raises-sheikh-hasina-s-extradition-request-in-meet-with-eam-jaishankar-india-bats-for-constructive-engagement-1775719423001">Bangladesh FM raises Sheikh Hasina's extradition request in meet with EAM Jaishankar, India bats for 'constructive' engagement</a> "Bengal's best interest does not lie in animosity towards the Prime Minister; rather, the people stand to gain the most if both the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister work together. That is precisely why a double-engine government is absolutely essential for Bengal. A double-engine government will make Bengal self-reliant in the sectors of fisheries and seafood," he said. PM Modi also highlighted the steps taken by the Central government towards boosting the fisheries sector across the country, which includes the establishment of a separate fisheries ministry. He added that lakhs of fishermen have benefited from the Kisan Credit Card scheme and Rs 5 lakh insurance. "The BJP established a separate Ministry dedicated to Fisheries. After decades of independence, our government, for the very first time, created a distinct Ministry of Fisheries to address the needs of fishermen, their families, and the Blue Economy as a whole. Not only did we create a separate Ministry, but the BJP has also allocated a distinct and record-breaking budget for the welfare of fishermen. Furthermore, the BJP has provided access to the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facility for fishermen. The BJP has also provided insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh for fishermen; lakhs of our fellow fishermen have already availed themselves of this benefit. Once a BJP government is formed here, every Central government scheme will be implemented in the state with great speed and efficiency," said PM Modi. &nbsp;The polling for the 294-member Assembly in West Bengal will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while counting of votes is scheduled for May 4. In the last assembly election in the state, held in eight phases in 2021, the Trinamool Congress recorded a landslide victory with 213 seats amid an intense contest with the BJP, which jumped to 77 seats. Congress and Left Front drew a blank in the last state polls.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience. &nbsp;

What are PM Modi’s “six guarantees” for West Bengal? At a high-stakes rally, Narendra Modi promised governance overhaul, anti-corruption action and refugee rights, taking direct aim at Mamata Banerjee ahead of polls.

Scroll down to read more.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday unveiled "six guarantees" for West Bengal, which will ensure an "accountable and fully answerable" administrative machinery to serve the people. Addressing a public rally here, the Prime Minister promised the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission, while assuring the establishment of trustful atmosphere, which will restore faith in the rule of law. He further vowed action and reopening cases of corruption, scam and women-related crimes, which took place under the TMC regime. The Prime Minister added that no "TMC goon" would be able to evade the law following the formation of the BJP government in the state and also pledged to provide the right to refugees guaranteed by the constitution. Also read | RG Kar rape-murder victim's mother vows to defeat Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal "I offer six guarantees to West Bengal-- 1. Modi's first guarantee: A BJP government will replace this atmosphere of fear with trust. It will restore faith in the rule of law. 2. Modi's second guarantee: Under a BJP government, the administrative machinery will be accountable--fully answerable--to the public it serves. 3. Modi's third guarantee: The files regarding every scam, every act of corruption, every injustice committed against our daughters, and every case of rape will be reopened. 4. Modi's fourth guarantee: Under the TMC's rule, whoever has engaged in corruption belongs in jail. Be it a minister or a watchman, the law will hold everyone to account. No TMC goon will be able to evade the law any longer. 5. Modi's fifth guarantee: Refugees will be granted every right and privilege guaranteed by the Constitution. However, infiltrators will be driven out; they will not be permitted to remain in India. 6. Modi's sixth guarantee: The moment a BJP government is formed here, we will implement the 7th Pay Commission," the Prime Minister said. PM Modi further emphasised that the state's interest lies when both the Prime Minister and Chief Minister work together towards the development of the state. He further stressed that the "double engine" government in West Bengal would work for making the state "self-reliant" in the fisheries and seafood sectors. Also read | Bangladesh FM raises Sheikh Hasina's extradition request in meet with EAM Jaishankar, India bats for 'constructive' engagement "Bengal's best interest does not lie in animosity towards the Prime Minister; rather, the people stand to gain the most if both the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister work together. That is precisely why a double-engine government is absolutely essential for Bengal. A double-engine government will make Bengal self-reliant in the sectors of fisheries and seafood," he said. PM Modi also highlighted the steps taken by the Central government towards boosting the fisheries sector across the country, which includes the establishment of a separate fisheries ministry. He added that lakhs of fishermen have benefited from the Kisan Credit Card scheme and Rs 5 lakh insurance. "The BJP established a separate Ministry dedicated to Fisheries. After decades of independence, our government, for the very first time, created a distinct Ministry of Fisheries to address the needs of fishermen, their families, and the Blue Economy as a whole. Not only did we create a separate Ministry, but the BJP has also allocated a distinct and record-breaking budget for the welfare of fishermen. Furthermore, the BJP has provided access to the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facility for fishermen. The BJP has also provided insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh for fishermen; lakhs of our fellow fishermen have already availed themselves of this benefit. Once a BJP government is formed here, every Central government scheme will be implemented in the state with great speed and efficiency," said PM Modi. The polling for the 294-member Assembly in West Bengal will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while counting of votes is scheduled for May 4. In the last assembly election in the state, held in eight phases in 2021, the Trinamool Congress recorded a landslide victory with 213 seats amid an intense contest with the BJP, which jumped to 77 seats. Congress and Left Front drew a blank in the last state polls. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

What are PM Modi’s “six guarantees” for West Bengal? At a high-stakes rally, Narendra Modi promised governance overhaul, anti-corruption action and refugee rights, taking direct aim at Mamata Banerjee ahead of polls.Scroll down to read more.

‘6 guarantees for Bengal’: PM Modi vows crackdown on corruption, 7th Pay Commission rollout

Ratna Debnath, the mother of the doctor killed at RG Kar Medical College, has entered the West Bengal assembly election as a BJP candidate, naming Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as her primary opponent and vowing not to comb her hair until her daughter receives justice. Debnath said she will file her nomination soon. West Bengal's 294-seat assembly will go to the polls in two phases. The first phase, covering 152 constituencies, is scheduled for April 23. The second phase, covering the remaining 142 constituencies, follows on April 29. Vote counting is set for May 4.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-blog-kerala-assam-puducherry-assembly-elections-2026-live-updates-voting-day-election-commission-of-india-bjp-congress-inc-nda-1775697488353">Keralam, Assam, Puducherry&nbsp;Assembly Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Over 15% voter turnout till 9 am</a><h2>Why didn't Mamata Banerjee save my daughter?</h2>Channelling nearly eight months of grief and anger into a direct electoral challenge against the woman she holds responsible for what happened to her daughter, Debnath announced "My main enemy is Mamata Banerjee because she's the Health Minister, and my daughter worked for the Health Department"."Why didn't Mamata Banerjee save my daughter?" she questioned. "I'll take an oath until my daughter gets justice - I won't comb my hair. I'll file the nomination tomorrow. People are supporting me and want to see Mamata Banerjee defeated," said Debnath," she added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/motive-behind-delhi-assembly-security-breach-revealed-attempted-murder-or-desperate-bid-for-police-assistance-1775550747506">Delhi Assembly security breach motive REVEALED: Attempted murder or desperation?</a><h2>RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case</h2>On August 9, 2024, a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor was found raped and murdered inside a seminar room at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The crime triggered an enormous wave of protests across India, with demonstrations in the medical community drawing particular attention as doctors and students took to the streets demanding accountability.The Calcutta High Court, dissatisfied with the Kolkata Police's handling of the investigation, transferred the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation. The CBI has since made multiple arrests, though the case continues to move through the courts.Mamata Banerjee, who holds the health portfolio in addition to the chief ministership, faced sustained criticism over the state government's initial response to the incident, including allegations of evidence tampering and delayed action that the administration has denied.

Ratna Debnath, mother of the RG Kar rape-murder victim, has entered the election race, taking on Mamata Banerjee and vowing justice for her daughter. “I'll take an oath until my daughter gets justice - I won't comb my hair,” she said.

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Ratna Debnath, the mother of the doctor killed at RG Kar Medical College, has entered the West Bengal assembly election as a BJP candidate, naming Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as her primary opponent and vowing not to comb her hair until her daughter receives justice. Debnath said she will file her nomination soon. West Bengal's 294-seat assembly will go to the polls in two phases. The first phase, covering 152 constituencies, is scheduled for April 23. The second phase, covering the remaining 142 constituencies, follows on April 29. Vote counting is set for May 4. Also read | Keralam, Assam, Puducherry Assembly Elections 2026 LIVE Updates: Over 15% voter turnout till 9 am Why didn't Mamata Banerjee save my daughter? Channelling nearly eight months of grief and anger into a direct electoral challenge against the woman she holds responsible for what happened to her daughter, Debnath announced "My main enemy is Mamata Banerjee because she's the Health Minister, and my daughter worked for the Health Department". "Why didn't Mamata Banerjee save my daughter?" she questioned. "I'll take an oath until my daughter gets justice - I won't comb my hair. I'll file the nomination tomorrow. People are supporting me and want to see Mamata Banerjee defeated," said Debnath," she added. Also read | Delhi Assembly security breach motive REVEALED: Attempted murder or desperation? RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case On August 9, 2024, a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor was found raped and murdered inside a seminar room at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The crime triggered an enormous wave of protests across India, with demonstrations in the medical community drawing particular attention as doctors and students took to the streets demanding accountability. The Calcutta High Court, dissatisfied with the Kolkata Police's handling of the investigation, transferred the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation. The CBI has since made multiple arrests, though the case continues to move through the courts. Mamata Banerjee, who holds the health portfolio in addition to the chief ministership, faced sustained criticism over the state government's initial response to the incident, including allegations of evidence tampering and delayed action that the administration has denied.

Ratna Debnath, mother of the RG Kar rape-murder victim, has entered the election race, taking on Mamata Banerjee and vowing justice for her daughter. “I'll take an oath until my daughter gets justice - I won't comb my hair,” she said.Scroll down to read more.

'Why didn't she save my daughter?': Mother of RG Kar rape-murder victim enters West Bengal election fray, vows to defeat Mamata Banerjee

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